Week 39: Full Term

Your baby is now considered full term, meaning all major organs, including the lungs and brain, are mature and ready to function independently outside the womb.

Your baby continues accumulating a bit more fat each day, which helps with the significant temperature regulation challenge of moving from the warm womb to the outside world.

You've reached full term. Many women feel a strong mix of anticipation and readiness at this stage, even amid ongoing physical discomfort.

At 39 weeks, common experiences include:

• Significant pelvic pressure
• Frequent Braxton Hicks contractions
• Difficulty sleeping
• Swelling
• Lower back pain
• Possible signs of early labor

Continue eating as comfortable. Light, easily digestible meals can feel more manageable if you're experiencing increased pressure or early labor signs.

Continue gentle movement as your body allows. Rest is equally valuable now — there's no need to push yourself into extra activity hoping to trigger labor.

This week:

• Keep your hospital bag and paperwork easily accessible
• Have a clear plan for who to call when labor begins
• Trust your body and don't hesitate to call your doctor with any concerns

Your doctor will continue close monitoring at this stage and will discuss what to expect if your due date passes without labor starting on its own, including potential timing for discussing induction if needed.