# Week 40 of Pregnancy

Source: https://www.pregnancypowerhour.com/pregnancy/week-40
Last updated: 2026-07-01

> Week 40 marks your estimated due date, a time of anticipation and often a gentle shift in focus from preparation to patience as you await your baby's arrival.

This week, you've reached your estimated due date! For many, this day arrives with a mix of excitement and a touch of impatience. It's a significant milestone, yet it's helpful to remember that only about 5% of babies actually arrive on their due date. Your baby, now often compared to the size of a small pumpkin, is fully developed and simply waiting for the perfect moment to meet you.

## What's happening with baby

Your baby is considered full-term and ready for the world. While their major organs are mature, there's still some important fine-tuning happening. Their immune system continues to develop, preparing them for life outside the womb. Brain development, particularly in the cerebral cortex, is ongoing, and they're still laying down crucial fat stores. These fat layers are vital for helping them regulate their body temperature once they're born. Baby is also accumulating meconium, their first stool, in their intestines. Most importantly, your baby is likely settled into a head-down, engaged position, putting gentle pressure on your cervix as they prepare for birth.

## What you might be feeling

At 40 weeks, your body is doing incredible work. You might be experiencing increased pelvic pressure and discomfort as your baby settles deeper into your pelvis. Braxton Hicks contractions could be more frequent and intense, sometimes making you wonder if labor has begun. Sleep can be elusive due to physical discomfort, the need for frequent bathroom trips, and a mind buzzing with anticipation. Emotionally, you might be on a rollercoaster – from immense excitement to impatience, anxiety, and even a profound sense of readiness. Many parents also report a strong nesting instinct, feeling a powerful urge to organize and prepare their home for baby's arrival.

## A doula's lived take

Reaching your due date can feel like a finish line, but it’s often just the beginning of the waiting game. As a doula, I've seen firsthand how challenging this period of anticipation can be. It’s completely normal to feel restless, anxious, or even a little disappointed if your due date passes without a baby in your arms. My gentle suggestion is to reframe this time. Instead of viewing it as being “overdue,” consider it a continuation of your pregnancy, allowing your body and baby to align for their unique timing. Focus on rest, gentle movement like walking or swimming, and nourishing yourself. Trust in your body's innate wisdom. You get to decide how you approach the coming days, always in collaboration with your care provider. This is a powerful time to practice patience and surrender, knowing that your baby will arrive when they are ready.

## Questions worth asking your provider

As you approach or pass your estimated due date, having clear conversations with your care provider can bring a lot of calm. Here are some questions you might consider asking:

*   What are the next steps for monitoring my baby's well-being if my pregnancy extends beyond 40 weeks?
*   What are the options for induction, if needed, and what are the potential benefits and risks of each approach?
*   At what point would we consider an induction, and what factors would influence that decision?
*   What specific signs or symptoms should prompt me to call you, especially regarding labor progression or concerns about baby's movements?