Louise 
You’re 40 weeks pregnant. You’ve made it. Full term. Graduation day. Only… there’s no cap, no gown, and probably no baby yet either.
If you’re feeling fed up, uncomfortable, emotional, or just plain done — you’re not alone. Most people don’t go into labour on their due date. In fact, only around 4–5% of babies are born on the magical 40-week mark.
Here’s what’s going on at week 40 — and why you’re doing brilliantly, even if you’re still waiting.
👶 Your Baby at 40 Weeks Pregnant
By now, your baby is fully developed and ready for life outside — even if they haven’t got the memo yet.
Most babies weigh between 3.2–4.1kg (7–9lbs), but healthy babies come in all sizes
Their skin is smooth, thanks to shedding most of the vernix (that creamy protective coating)
They’re practicing breathing by moving amniotic fluid in and out of their lungs
They’re curled up tightly in your uterus, ready to make their grand entrance
At this point, it’s less about growing and more about fine-tuning — and getting themselves (and you) ready for birth.
🤰 Pregnancy Symptoms at 40 Weeks
You’ve probably been feeling very pregnant for a while now — and week 40 can really turn it up a notch.
Common symptoms this week include:
Stronger Braxton Hicks tightenings
Pressure or heaviness in your pelvis
Backache or crampy feelings
Needing to wee constantly
Difficulty sleeping (because of discomfort, excitement, anxiety — or all three)
Mood swings — from weepy to ragey to giddy in the space of an hour
And of course, everyone you know is now asking, “Any signs yet?” — as if you wouldn’t have mentioned it.
🤰 Signs That Labour Might Be Starting
Real labour can be tricky to spot at first — especially after weeks of random tightenings. Here are a few signs that things might be getting serious:
Regular, stronger contractions that don’t go away with rest
A show (losing the mucus plug) — can be pink, clear or streaked with blood
Waters breaking — either a gush or a slow trickle
Backache that doesn’t ease
Feeling like you need to empty your bowels (a lot!)
Remember, it’s perfectly normal to not feel textbook symptoms. Every labour starts differently. If you’re ever unsure, ring your midwife — that’s what they’re there for.
📅 What Happens If Baby Doesn’t Come?
If you’re still pregnant after 40 weeks, don’t panic. It’s very common. Your midwife will likely offer:
A membrane sweep from 40+ weeks (depending on your local NHS Trust’s policy)
A discussion about induction of labour if you go beyond 41+ weeks
Ongoing monitoring of you and your baby to check everything remains reassuring
Remember: it’s your body, your baby, your choice. You don’t have to agree to anything straight away. You’re allowed to ask questions and explore your options.
👉 Want to feel more confident about induction?
Book our Induction of Labour Workshop here
💬 Honest Midwife Thoughts
40 weeks pregnant can feel like you’re stuck in limbo. You’re uncomfortable, everyone’s messaging you, and you’re trying not to get your hopes up every time you feel a twinge.
Here’s the truth: you’re not “overdue” yet — you’re just reaching the natural end of your pregnancy window. Some babies just need a little longer to get ready.
So be kind to yourself. Rest when you can. Walk if it feels good. Eat something you love. Watch rubbish TV. And tell well-meaning relatives you’ll update them when there’s news — not before.
💜 We’re cheering you on every step of the way. And when labour does kick off? You’re more ready than you know.
