At 39 weeks pregnant, I remember feeling a mix of excitement, exhaustion, and pure anticipation. I was so ready to meet my baby, but I also felt like my body was done — the constant backaches, the fatigue, and the discomfort from simply existing in a body that was growing a tiny human. At this point, every little thing seemed like a sign that labor could start any second. But at the same time, I couldn’t shake that feeling of uncertainty.
If you’re 39 weeks pregnant, I bet you’re feeling a lot of these same emotions. The excitement is building, but so is the discomfort. And while you’re close to meeting your baby, it can be hard to know when exactly that’s going to happen. Trust me, I’ve been there, and I understand the mix of emotions that come with being so close but still in the waiting game.
In this post, I’ll walk you through what’s happening at 39 weeks pregnant, how to stay comfortable during these last days, and what signs to watch for. Let’s dive in together so you can feel as ready as possible for the big day ahead!
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1. Your Baby’s Development at 39 Weeks Pregnant
By 39 weeks pregnant, your baby is considered full-term and is making final preparations for the outside world. Here’s a breakdown of what’s going on:
Size and Weight
Your baby is about the size of a head of Swiss chard or a canary melon. They weigh between 6.5 and 7 pounds on average and measure around 19 to 20.5 inches long. Some babies may be a bit bigger or smaller, but they’re getting close to the ideal weight for birth.
Continued Growth
Even though physical growth slows at this stage, your baby is still gaining a bit of weight — about half an ounce a day. This extra fat will help them regulate their body temperature after birth.
Brain Development
Your baby’s brain is continuing to develop, and they are fine-tuning their abilities to breathe, digest, and suck. Their nervous system is ready to support these functions once they enter the world.
Lung Strength
By 39 weeks, your baby’s lungs are fully developed and producing more surfactant, a substance that helps their air sacs stay open after birth. This is a crucial step for their ability to breathe outside of the womb.
Baby’s Reflexes
Your baby’s reflexes are well-developed now, including their ability to grasp firmly with their fingers. In fact, they’ve been practicing thumb-sucking, blinking, and even breathing amniotic fluid in preparation for birth.
Baby Position
By now, most babies are in the optimal head-down position for birth, also known as “lightening” or “dropping.” This position can relieve pressure on your lungs but might increase pressure on your bladder (hello, constant bathroom trips!).
2. Common Symptoms at 39 Weeks Pregnant
As you reach this final stage, you’re likely experiencing a variety of physical changes. Here’s what you can expect:
Pelvic Pressure and “Lightning Crotch”
The baby’s head is pressing down on your pelvis, which can make walking difficult and increase pelvic pressure. You might also experience sharp, shooting pains in your pelvis or vagina, commonly referred to as “lightning crotch.” It’s uncomfortable, but it’s normal as your body prepares for labor.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
These “practice” contractions may be more frequent and intense at 39 weeks. They’re irregular and won’t become stronger over time. If they subside when you change positions, it’s likely just your body getting ready for the real thing.
Increased Vaginal Discharge
You may notice more vaginal discharge as your cervix begins to soften and thin in preparation for birth. It’s normal for this discharge to increase at 39 weeks, and you might even lose your mucus plug — a thick, jelly-like discharge that can be clear, pink, or blood-tinged. Losing the plug doesn’t mean labor is imminent, but it’s a sign that your cervix is getting ready.
Swelling (Edema)
Swelling in your feet, ankles, and hands is common at this stage, thanks to water retention and the extra weight you’re carrying. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can help manage the swelling. If you notice sudden, severe swelling, especially in your hands or face, contact your healthcare provider, as it could indicate preeclampsia.
Fatigue and Insomnia
You’re in the home stretch, but it’s common to feel exhausted and have trouble sleeping. Between the discomforts of pregnancy, the excitement of labor coming soon, and the constant need to use the bathroom, a full night’s rest can be hard to come by. I found that using pillows to support my belly and legs helped me sleep more comfortably, but I also embraced the naps when I could take them.
3. Tips for Staying Comfortable at 39 Weeks Pregnant
The final weeks of pregnancy can be tough, but there are ways to make it more manageable. Here are some tips to help you stay comfortable and relaxed:
Rest and Take Naps
I remember how tired I felt at 39 weeks, and it was hard to stay energized. Take naps whenever you can — your body needs it! Even a short rest can make a world of difference in how you feel. Don’t feel guilty about resting, mama. Your body is doing a lot of hard work.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water is important, not just to stay hydrated but to help reduce swelling and support overall comfort. It can also help keep things moving in your digestive system, preventing constipation, which can be a common issue at this stage.
Use a Pregnancy Pillow for Support
Sleeping at 39 weeks can be uncomfortable. I relied heavily on my pregnancy pillow to support my back, belly, and hips. If you don’t have one yet, it might be time to invest in one — it made a huge difference for me when I was struggling to get comfortable at night.
Gentle Movement
While you may feel like resting all the time, gentle exercises like walking can help relieve some of the discomfort. I took short walks to ease the pressure in my hips and lower back, and it helped me feel more relaxed and energized.
Focus on Relaxation
Prenatal yoga or breathing exercises can be great for managing stress and easing discomfort. I used a few deep-breathing techniques to calm my nerves and relieve tension. Creating a calming routine at the end of the day can help your body relax, especially before bed.
4. What to Do at 39 Weeks Pregnant?
As you near the finish line, there are some important things to focus on to prepare for labor and delivery:
Start Weekly Checkups
At 39 weeks, you’ll likely be seeing your healthcare provider every week. These visits will help monitor your progress and ensure everything is on track for labor. Don’t skip these appointments — they’re key to staying on top of any concerns.
Pack Your Hospital Bag
If you haven’t already packed your hospital bag, it’s time to do so! Make sure you have everything you’ll need for yourself, your partner, and the baby. Don’t forget the baby’s car seat, and double-check that it’s properly installed in your car.
Know the Signs of Labor
It’s important to know the signs of true labor, including regular contractions that get stronger and closer together, the loss of your mucus plug, or your water breaking. If you experience any of these signs, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Plan for Postpartum Care
While you’re preparing for labor, don’t forget to think about the first few weeks postpartum. Stock up on baby essentials like diapers and wipes, and prepare for your own recovery by having postpartum supplies ready. You’ll thank yourself for this later!
Finalize Your Birth Plan
If you haven’t done so already, now is the time to finalize your birth plan. Go over it with your healthcare provider and make sure you’re on the same page about things like pain relief options, delivery preferences, and your postpartum care.
5. Expert Insight : What the Experts Say?
According to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), babies born at 39 weeks are considered full-term. At this point, their major organs are fully developed, and they are ready for life outside the womb. However, even though your baby is technically full-term, you might still go past your due date, especially if it’s your first pregnancy. Keep monitoring your symptoms, stay in close touch with your doctor, and trust that your body is doing exactly what it needs to do.
6. Wrapping Up with Love & Support
Mama, you are so close. The final weeks of pregnancy are both exciting and overwhelming, and I know it can be hard to stay patient when you’re so eager to meet your baby. But remember, every day that passes is one more day closer to the moment you’ve been waiting for.
Take it easy, enjoy the last few quiet moments, and know that you’re doing an amazing job. You’ve got this, and soon enough, your baby will be in your arms. Stay strong, mama — you’re almost there!
How are you feeling at 39 weeks pregnant? Share your experiences or any tips you’ve found helpful in the comments below — let’s support each other during this final stretch! And don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter for more tips and updates as you get closer to your baby’s arrival. You’re almost there, mama!