I remember feeling like I’d been pregnant forever when I hit 42 weeks. My due date had come and gone, and I was growing more and more uncomfortable by the day. Every time someone asked, “When’s the baby coming?” I felt a bit of pressure, even though I knew there wasn’t much I could do to hurry things along. The excitement of meeting my baby was there, but so was the fatigue — I was so ready for the baby to come.
At 42 weeks pregnant, I felt a mix of impatience, excitement, and, to be honest, a little bit of frustration. It’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed as you near the end of pregnancy, especially when it feels like the finish line keeps moving. But mama, you’re almost there! If you’re 42 weeks pregnant, you’re in the final stretch. There’s so much going on with your body and your baby, and in this post, I’ll share what to expect, the signs of labor, and what you can do while you wait.
I’ve been there, and I know it can feel like a lot — but I’m here to guide you through these last days. You’ve got this!
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1. Your Baby’s Development at 42 Weeks Pregnant
At 42 weeks, your baby is officially full-term, and their development is almost complete. Here’s what’s going on:
Size and Weight
Your baby is about the size of a large pumpkin or watermelon, weighing between 8 to 10 pounds and measuring around 20 inches. Every baby grows differently, but at this point, your little one is very close to their birth weight.
Physical Appearance
By now, your baby has shed most of the lanugo (fine hair) and vernix caseosa (the protective coating on their skin). The longer they’re in the womb, the more their skin may appear dry or peeling at birth, but don’t worry — this is totally temporary. Your baby’s skin will soften after they’re born, and they’ll look beautiful as ever.
Maturity
Your baby’s organs are fully developed. Their lungs are ready for breathing, their digestive system is working, and their brain is almost completely mature. All of this development means that they’re ready to thrive outside the womb, even though they may still have a few finishing touches to work on in the early days after birth.
Position
Most babies will have dropped into the head-down position by now, getting into place for labor. This is what we call “lightening.” Some babies may still be in a breech or sideways position, but most are already in the optimal position for delivery. You might feel more pressure in your pelvis as your baby settles lower.
2. What You’re Feeling at 42 Weeks Pregnant?
At 42 weeks pregnant, your body is likely feeling the effects of carrying your baby for an extended time. Here’s what to expect:
Increased Discomfort
The increased weight and pressure of your baby can make common pregnancy discomforts more intense. You might experience more pelvic pressure, back pain, or leg cramps as your baby moves lower into the pelvis. I remember feeling like I couldn’t get comfortable no matter how I positioned myself!
Swelling
Swelling (or edema) in your feet, ankles, and hands is common at this stage. Your body is retaining more fluids, and the pressure of carrying your baby can worsen swelling. To help, elevate your feet when possible and stay hydrated to reduce the fluid buildup.
Cervical Changes
Your cervix is getting ready for labor, which means it will start to soften, thin (efface), and dilate. You might feel some cramping or discomfort as your cervix changes. If your doctor or midwife performs a cervical check, they may tell you how many centimeters dilated you are. This is one of the signs that your body is getting ready, but don’t be discouraged if it’s taking its time — labor will come when it’s ready!
Fatigue and Insomnia
At this point, sleep can be elusive. Between the discomforts of pregnancy and the anxiety about when labor will begin, it’s hard to get restful sleep. I remember tossing and turning every night, wondering if today would be the day. Try to take naps when you can and practice relaxation techniques to help calm your mind before bed.
Emotional Stress
Waiting for labor can take a toll emotionally. It’s normal to feel frustrated or anxious at 42 weeks. Your due date has passed, and it can be hard to wait for something so life-changing. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re behind schedule — every pregnancy is different. Focus on keeping yourself calm and preparing for labor when it comes.
3. What to Do While You Wait at 42 Weeks Pregnant?
The waiting game at 42 weeks pregnant can feel like torture, but there are things you can do to keep yourself comfortable and prepared for the big day:
Stay Active (But Don’t Overdo It)
Gentle activity like walking or swimming can help keep you moving and may even encourage labor to start. I made a habit of walking around the block in the evenings, and it helped ease my discomfort and gave me some time to think and relax. Just listen to your body and take breaks when you need them.
Use Relaxation Techniques
Labor can be physically and emotionally intense, so it’s important to stay as calm as possible. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or visualization exercises to reduce anxiety. I found that taking 10 minutes each day to focus on my breathing helped me stay centered and feel more prepared.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Small Meals
Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which will help with swelling and constipation. Also, keep your energy up with smaller, more frequent meals. If you’re feeling nauseous or uncomfortable, bland foods like crackers, toast, or fruit can be soothing.
Try Natural Methods (If You’re Comfortable)
Some women choose to try things like eating spicy food, having sex, or using acupressure to help induce labor. While none of these methods are guaranteed to work, they may give you something to focus on while you wait. Always check with your healthcare provider before trying anything new to make sure it’s safe for you and your baby.
Rest as Much as You Can
Even though you might feel the urge to get everything ready, it’s crucial to take time to rest and relax. Soon, you’ll be in full-on baby mode, and you won’t have much time for yourself. Take naps, relax with a good book, and savor the last moments of quiet before your baby arrives.
4. Signs of Labor to Watch For at 42 Weeks Pregnant
At this point, it’s important to know the signs that labor might be starting. Here’s what to look for:
Contractions
True labor contractions will become regular, stronger, and closer together. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, these will not subside when you change positions, and they will gradually increase in intensity. Start timing your contractions, and if they last about a minute each and come every 5 minutes, it’s time to call your healthcare provider.
Loss of Mucus Plug or Bloody Show
You may notice a thick, clear, pink, or brownish discharge known as the mucus plug. Losing your mucus plug doesn’t always mean labor is imminent, but it’s a sign that your cervix is starting to change and soften. If you see any bloody show, it’s another sign that things are moving in the right direction.
Water Breaking
If your water breaks, it’s time to call your healthcare provider. It may come as a sudden gush or a slow trickle of fluid. If the fluid is green or brownish, it could be meconium, which means your baby has passed their first stool in the womb. Either way, call your provider to discuss next steps.
Other Signs
You may also experience diarrhea or loose stools as your body prepares for labor. This is common and nothing to worry about, but it’s something to keep in mind.
5. Expert Insight : What the Experts Say?
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pregnancies that go past 40 weeks are considered post-term. At 42 weeks, your healthcare provider will likely monitor you more closely with nonstress tests (NSTs), ultrasounds, and possibly discuss induction methods if labor hasn’t started naturally. The risks of post-term pregnancy include reduced placenta function, lower amniotic fluid, and an increased chance of a larger baby, which can make vaginal delivery more difficult.
6. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, you’re so close. The final days of pregnancy can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, and I totally get how it feels to be past your due date and still waiting. But take a deep breath, trust your body, and know that your baby is coming soon. You’ve done an incredible job, and soon you’ll be holding your little one in your arms.
Keep focusing on self-care, take things one day at a time, and remember: You’re almost there!
What has been the hardest part of your 42nd week of pregnancy? Share your experiences in the comments below — we’re all in this together. And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more tips and support as you get ready for your baby’s arrival. You’re doing amazing, mama!