Week 39 of Pregnancy

Last updated: January 2026

Quick Answer

You’ve made it to 39 weeks - you’re in the final countdown and baby could arrive any day now! Your baby is the size of a jackfruit, weighing 6-9 pounds (2.7-4 kg), with a brain 30% bigger than just 4 weeks ago. While waiting for labor can feel endless, your body is preparing: cervix is softening, muscles are loosening, and you may experience early labor signs like mucus plug loss or increased contractions.

Your Baby at 39 Weeks

Size and Development

Measurement	Details
Length	About 50-51 cm (20 inches)
Weight	Approximately 2.7-4 kg (6-9 pounds)
Size comparison	Like a jackfruit (kathal)

Baby’s Development This Week

Brain:

• 30% bigger than 4 weeks ago

• Still developing rapidly

• Continues growing after birth Skin:

• Pinkish has turned whitish-gray

• Won’t have final pigment until after birth

• Will develop color over first year Weight:

• Has reached birth weight

• About 1/3 is baby’s head!

• Storing fat for warmth after birth Ready for Birth:

• All systems go

• Practicing breathing, sucking

• Coated in vernix for protection

• Swallowing amniotic fluid

What’s Happening to Your Body

Common Symptoms at 39 Weeks

Symptom	Why It Happens	What Helps
Heartburn and nausea	Baby pressing on stomach	Small meals
Frequent Braxton Hicks	Body preparing	Rest, hydration
Backaches	Weight, loosening joints	Massage, positioning
Pubic pain	Pelvis preparing for birth	Rest, support
Insomnia	Discomfort, anxiety	Sleep routine
Fatigue	End of pregnancy exhaustion	Rest when possible
Loss of appetite	Less stomach room	Eat when hungry
Anxiety	Anticipation of labor	Talk about it, prepare

Signs Your Body is Preparing

Cervical Changes:

• Cervix softening (effacing)

• May start dilating

• Doctor checks at appointments Diarrhea:

• Muscles relaxing throughout body

• Digestive muscles affected too

• Can happen days before labor Mucus Plug Loss:

• Thick, bloody mucus discharge

• Cervix opening

• Labor could be soon (or still days away)

Water Breaking

What It Feels Like:

• Gush of fluid OR

• Slow trickle (like peeing)

• Can’t control it What to Do:

• Note the time

• Note color and smell of fluid

• Put on pad

• Call doctor or go to hospital Fluid Should Be:

• Clear or slightly pink

• No strong smell

• If green, yellow, or smelly - go immediately

Step-by-Step Guide for Week 39

Step 1: Know All Labor Signs

Early Signs:

• Mucus plug loss

• Bloody show

• Loose bowels

• Increased Braxton Hicks

• Nesting instinct

• Back pain Active Labor Signs:

• Regular contractions (getting stronger and closer)

• Water breaking

• Intense contractions with back pain

• Contractions that don’t stop with rest

Step 2: Understand When to Go to Hospital

5-1-1 Rule:

• Contractions 5 minutes apart

• Lasting 1 minute each

• For at least 1 hour Go Immediately If:

• Water breaks

• Heavy bleeding

• Baby stops moving

• Severe pain

Step 3: Consider Eating During Early Labor

Research Shows:

• Eating during labor can shorten it
• Light snacks provide energy
• Stay hydrated What to Eat (if allowed):

• Light snacks
• Easy to digest foods
• Avoid heavy, greasy food
• Drink water, clear fluids

Step 4: Practice Coping Techniques

Between Contractions:

• Relaxation

• Meditation

• Visualization

• Rest During Contractions:

• Deep breathing

• Focus on exhale

• Partner support

• Movement if helpful

Step 5: Stay Comfortable

What Helps:

• Loose, cool clothing
• Layers (for temperature changes)
• Walking when able
• Position changes
• Birth ball
• Warm shower

Signs of Labor - Quick Reference

When to Stay Home (Early Labor)

• Contractions irregular
• Can talk through contractions
• Contractions more than 5 minutes apart
• Mucus plug but no regular contractions

When to Call Doctor

• Contractions becoming regular
• Unsure if it’s real labor
• Water breaks
• Bleeding
• Concerned about anything

When to Go to Hospital

• Contractions 5 minutes apart for 1 hour
• Water broke
• Can’t talk through contractions
• Heavy bleeding
• Baby not moving
• Feeling unwell

Tips for Success

• Know labor signs - Early and active
• Have hospital bag ready - By the door
• Stay active - Walking helps
• Rest when you can - Labor is hard work
• Eat when hungry - Small, light meals
• Stay hydrated - Water is important
• Practice breathing - Will help during contractions
• Be patient - Baby will come when ready

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Going to hospital too early - May be sent home
• Waiting too long - Know when to go
• Not eating or drinking - Need energy
• Exhausting yourself - Rest now
• Ignoring labor signs - Be prepared
• Not having plans ready - Finalize everything
• Panicking - Stay calm, you’re prepared

When to Seek Help

Go to Hospital If:

• Contractions 5 minutes apart for 1 hour

• Water breaks

• Heavy vaginal bleeding

• Baby stops moving

• Severe abdominal pain

• Feel something is wrong Call Doctor If:

• Think labor is starting

• Unsure about symptoms

• Mucus plug lost with other signs

• Any concerns at all

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: 39 weeks pe due date hai - baby aaj hi aayega kya?

A: Only about 5% of babies come on their due date! Most arrive between 39-41 weeks. Due date is an estimate. Baby will come when ready - could be today, could be 2 weeks from now. Both are normal.

Q: Water toot gaya but contractions nahi - kya karun?

A: Call your doctor or go to hospital. Most women go into labor within 24 hours of water breaking. If not, labor may need to be induced to prevent infection. Note the time and color of fluid.

Q: Labor mein khana kha sakte hain kya?

A: Many hospitals now allow light snacking in early labor. Research shows it may shorten labor. Check your hospital’s policy. Light, easy-to-digest foods and staying hydrated help. In active labor, you may not feel like eating.

Q: Cervix dilate ho raha hai but labor start nahi hui?

A: Cervical changes (dilation, effacement) can happen days or even weeks before labor starts. Some women walk around 2-3 cm dilated for weeks! It means your body is preparing, but doesn’t predict exactly when labor will start.

Q: Waiting itna mushkil hai - kab labor start hoga?

A: We understand the frustration! Unfortunately, there’s no way to predict exact timing. Stay active (walking), rest when needed, try to relax. Baby will come - could be hours, could be days. Focus on self-care and preparation.

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This article was reviewed by a healthcare provider. At 39 weeks, your baby is ready - the only question now is when! Trust your body and stay alert for labor signs.

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