What to Expect in Weeks 40-to-42 of Pregnancy: Antenatal Care Guide

The final weeks of pregnancy, from weeks 40 to 42, are a time of anticipation and preparation. While your due date is often set at 40 weeks, it’s common for labour to start a little earlier or later. During this period, antenatal care becomes even more crucial as healthcare providers monitor both mother and baby closely to ensure their health and safety.

This guide explores what to expect during weeks 40 to 42, how your baby continues to develop, and how to prepare for labour. We’ll also discuss options for managing an overdue pregnancy and tips for staying comfortable in these final days.

Baby’s Development in Weeks 40–42

Week 40: Full-Term and Ready for Birth

At week 40, your baby is fully developed and ready to be born. They typically weigh between 3 and 3.6 kg and measure around 50 cm long.

Development Highlights:

The baby’s lungs are fully mature, and they can breathe air upon delivery.

Fat stores provide warmth and energy after birth.

The baby’s digestive system, while ready, will only activate after their first feeding.

Weeks 41–42: Continued Growth

If your pregnancy extends beyond 40 weeks, your baby may continue to grow and gain weight, though changes slow significantly.

What’s Happening:

The placenta continues to provide oxygen and nutrients, although its efficiency may begin to decline after 42 weeks.

The baby’s movements may feel less frequent as they run out of space, but regular activity should still be noticeable.

The baby’s skin may appear dry or peeling at birth due to the reduced presence of vernix caseosa.

Physical and Emotional Changes in the Mother

Physical Symptoms

The physical demands of late pregnancy can be challenging. Common symptoms include:

Pelvic Pressure: As the baby moves lower into the birth canal, pelvic discomfort may intensify.

Frequent Urination: The baby’s position may increase pressure on the bladder.

Fatigue and Insomnia: Physical discomfort and anticipation of labour can disrupt sleep.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: These may become more frequent and stronger as your body prepares for labour.

Emotional Shifts

The uncertainty of when labour will start can cause mixed emotions, including excitement, anxiety, and impatience. Staying connected with your support system and practising self-care can help manage these feelings.

The Role of Antenatal Care During Weeks 40–42

Antenatal Appointments

During these weeks, antenatal appointments become more frequent, often occurring every few days if you go beyond your due date.

What to Expect:

Monitoring of the baby’s heart rate and movements.

Blood pressure checks to detect conditions like pre-eclampsia.

Internal exams to assess the cervix’s dilation and effacement.

Foetal Monitoring

If your pregnancy extends past 41 weeks, additional tests may be recommended:

Non-Stress Test (NST): Measures the baby’s heart rate in response to their movements.

Ultrasound: Evaluates amniotic fluid levels and the baby’s position.

Managing an Overdue Pregnancy

When is a Pregnancy Considered Overdue?

Pregnancy is considered overdue if it goes beyond 42 weeks. About 5–10% of pregnancies extend past this point, according to the NHS.

Induction of Labour

If labour hasn’t started naturally by 42 weeks, your healthcare provider may recommend induction to reduce the risk of complications.

Methods of Induction:

Membrane Sweep: A gentle separation of the amniotic sac from the cervix to stimulate labour.

Prostaglandin Gel: Helps soften and dilate the cervix.

Oxytocin Drip: Encourages contractions if the cervix is already favourable.

Risks of Prolonged Pregnancy

Post-term pregnancies can increase the risk of complications such as:

Reduced efficiency of the placenta.

Low amniotic fluid levels.

Higher chances of meconium-stained amniotic fluid, which can affect the baby’s breathing.

Preparing for Labour During Weeks 40–42

1. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Staying calm and relaxed can help your body prepare for labour. Consider:

Antenatal Yoga: Focus on poses that promote relaxation and breathing techniques.

Prenatal Massage: A qualified therapist can provide massage for pregnancy to reduce tension and improve circulation.

2. Stay Active

Gentle physical activity can help encourage labour while keeping you energised.

Walking, climbing stairs, or swaying on a birthing ball are common recommendations.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting new activities.

3. Finalise Your Birth Plan

Review your birth preferences, including:

Pain management options.

Labour positions and delivery preferences.

Emergency procedures or interventions.

4. Pack Your Hospital Bag

Ensure your bag includes essentials for you and your baby:

Comfortable clothes, toiletries, and snacks for you.

Baby clothes, nappies, and blankets.

Important documents, such as antenatal care records.

Recognising the Signs of Labour

Early Signs

Labour often starts with subtle changes, including:

Regular Contractions: Painful contractions that increase in intensity and frequency.

Loss of the Mucus Plug: A thick discharge from the cervix, sometimes tinged with blood.

Water Breaking: A gush or trickle of amniotic fluid, signalling that the membranes have ruptured.

When to Call Your Antenatal Clinic

Contact your antenatal clinic or hospital if:

Your water breaks.

You experience heavy bleeding or severe pain.

Contractions are five minutes apart and last at least one minute.

Tips for Staying Comfortable

1. Antenatal Fitness

Light exercises such as walking or attending antenatal yoga classes can ease physical discomfort and promote better sleep.

2. Relaxation During Pregnancy

Incorporate activities that reduce stress, such as:

Warm baths.

Meditation or mindfulness exercises.

Listening to soothing music.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating small, frequent meals can help sustain your energy levels. Focus on:

High-fibre foods to prevent constipation.

Protein-rich snacks to support stamina.

Hydration to combat fatigue and swelling.

Emotional Support and Antenatal Education

1. Attend Antenatal Classes

If you haven’t already, consider joining antenatal classes near me to learn about:

Labour and delivery stages.

Coping techniques for pain.

Postpartum care and breastfeeding.

2. Seek Antenatal Support

Lean on your support network, including your partner, family, or friends. Sharing your feelings can help ease anxiety and build excitement for your baby’s arrival.

Key Milestones to Celebrate

Reaching Full Term: At 40 weeks, your baby is fully developed and ready to be born.

Attending Final Antenatal Appointments: These visits ensure you and your baby remain healthy as you approach delivery.

Final Preparations: Completing your nursery or ticking off your to-do list can bring a sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion

Weeks 40 to 42 of pregnancy are a time of anticipation, preparation, and close monitoring. With proper antenatal care, relaxation techniques, and a strong support system, you can approach labour with confidence. Remember to stay connected with your healthcare provider for any concerns and celebrate the journey as you prepare to meet your baby.

Sources

NHS. “Your Pregnancy and Baby Guide: Labour and Birth.” NHS UK

Tommy’s. “Overdue Pregnancy: What Happens Next?” Tommy’s UK

Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. “Induction of Labour.” RCOG

Mayo Clinic. “Signs of Labour: What to Expect.” Mayo Clinic

American Pregnancy Association. “Prenatal Care and Monitoring in Late Pregnancy.” American Pregnancy Association

Birthrights. “Choices and Rights in Labour and Birth.” Birthrights UK