Louise 
You’re 39 weeks pregnant — and if it feels like you’ve been pregnant forever, you’re not imagining it. At this 39 weeks pregnant, you might feel excited, impatient, emotional, uncomfortable… or all of the above before lunchtime.
The truth is, your baby could decide to arrive any day now — but they might also hang on for a while yet (sorry).
Here’s what’s happening at 39 weeks.
👶 Your Baby at 39 Weeks Pregnant
Your baby is considered full term now — fully developed, fully functional, and just getting plumper and stronger while they wait for their big debut at 39 weeks pregnant.
This week:
Baby likely weighs around 3–3.5kg (roughly 7–8lbs)
They’re shedding the last of their lanugo (the soft hair that covered their body)
They’re swallowing amniotic fluid and practicing their breathing movements
Their gut is filling with meconium — that famous sticky black first poo
They’re curled up and running out of room, which may make their movements feel slower but stronger
If you notice a big reduction in movements, though, always contact your maternity unit straight away. Baby should still be active, even at 39 weeks of pregnancy.
🤰 Pregnancy Symptoms at 39 Weeks
You’re almost at the finish line — but your body is still working overtime to get you there as you are 39 weeks pregnant!
Common symptoms at 39 weeks include:
Braxton Hicks contractions — practice tightenings that can be intense now
Backache or pelvic pressure
A heavy feeling low down (like your baby’s trying to get out — because they are)
Needing to wee every five minutes
Trouble sleeping (getting comfy at this stage deserves a medal)
Emotional ups and downs — feeling excited, fed up, anxious or just over it
You might also notice changes like more vaginal discharge, a bit of spotting (called a “show”), or feeling a bit more ‘nesty’ (or alternatively, wanting to lie on the sofa under a blanket — both valid).
🤰 Signs That Labour Could Be Close
Labour often doesn’t follow the Hollywood “waters-gush-and-off-you-go” script. Here’s what might actually happen:
A show (mucus plug coming away, possibly streaked with blood)
Stronger Braxton Hicks that start to form a regular pattern
Backache that doesn’t ease with movement
Waters breaking — a gush or a trickle
Feeling the urge to go to the toilet more often
It’s common for early labour to start slowly — and for things to take time. Rest as much as you can, eat, drink, and trust your instincts. If you’re ever unsure if it’s the real thing, call your maternity unit. That’s what they’re there for.
📅 What to Expect at Appointments This Week
If you haven’t already, your midwife may offer:
A membrane sweep (a procedure to encourage labour)
A discussion about your options after 40 weeks if baby hasn’t arrived
Sweeps are always optional. You can say yes, no, or “I’ll think about it.”
👉 If you’re considering induction, you might find our Induction of Labour Workshop helpful.
Book your place here
💬 Honest Midwife Thoughts
39 weeks is tough. You’re tired, you’re ready, and it can feel like everyone else is more impatient than you are. (“Any news yet?” — the most irritating text you’ll ever receive.)
Here’s your permission slip:
You don’t have to rush. You don’t have to perform. You’re allowed to rest, to say no to plans, to trust that your body knows what it’s doing — even if it feels like it’s taking forever during this 39th week of pregnancy.
💜 When labour starts — whenever that is — you’ll handle it, one moment at a time. And we’ll be cheering you on, all the way.
