Pregnancy week 39 marks the beginning of the twelfth and final month of pregnancy. By this point, the baby should be close to full-term and ready to be born. You may be feeling very tired and uncomfortable due to the baby’s size and position.
At this stage, your baby should be over 7 pounds and around 21 inches long. His or her lungs should be fully developed, although there will still be some development after the baby is born. The brain and nervous system will also be continuing to develop, as your baby learns and remembers.
The bones of your baby’s skeleton should also be fully formed and strong enough to handle the birth process. The baby should now be in the head-down position in preparation for delivery.
It is common to experience Braxton Hicks contractions and increased back pain at this time, as your uterus is adjusting to the extra weight of the baby. You may also experience a slight “dropping” sensation in your abdomen in the weeks leading up to labor, known as lightening.
Week 39 is a very special time in your pregnancy. With the baby close to full-term, it is time to start preparing for the big day. Make sure to check in with your doctor or midwife if you have any questions or concerns.