You and your baby at 35 - 40 weeks pregnant

35-40 Weeks Pregnant

Last Weeks of Pregnancy

Get excited, mama! You’re almost there. For some expecting mums, these last few weeks may feel never-ending as they eagerly await their baby’s arrival.

For others, weeks 35-40 fly by, filled with to-do lists, maternity leave tasks, and final preparations. Whatever emotions you’re feeling, know that they are all valid, normal, and understandable.

What's Happening with the Baby in the Final Weeks?

At 37 weeks, you are officially full-term, but your baby is still developing. Babies at this stage continue to gain fat and weight, develop vital organs (like their heart, brain, and lungs), and become more familiar with the outside world.

Body Changes - Preparation for Giving Birth

By now, you’re likely used to your growing bump, but you may notice more changes. Around week 40 (or earlier), you may see your bump “drop,” signalling that your baby is moving down the birth canal, preparing for birth.

It's essential to check your baby's position at this stage. If they are breech, your midwife might recommend a different delivery method, possibly a medically-assisted one.

Mum-to-Be Tips

As you enter the nesting phase, take it easy and nurture yourself and your baby. Eat well, go for daily walks, have help with chores, and get as much sleep as possible – new-borns aren't the best sleepers!

Incorporate mindfulness, hypnobirthing, and positive visualizations into your routine to approach birth with an empowered mindset. This is also the time to pack your hospital bag and finalize your birth plan with your partner and midwife.

Finally, keep tracking your baby’s movements. It's a misconception that babies move less toward the end of pregnancy. Any sudden change in movement should be reported to your hospital immediately.

Causes and Risk Factors for Early Birth

Most women carry their babies to term, but some risk factors may lead to an early birth, such as:

• Carrying multiples
• Maternal health conditions (pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, cholestasis, etc.)
• Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM)
• Placental problems
• Family history of preterm births
• Maternal age
• Short cervical length

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Many women start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions, or “false contractions,” at this stage. These feel like abdominal tightening and result in irregular, uncomfortable (but usually not painful) contractions.

Braxton Hicks are common and signal that your body is preparing for labour.

Going Into Labour – FAQs

How Do I Know When Labour Is Approaching?

Signs of labour include:

• A bloody “show” from the mucus plug coming off
• Sudden back pain
• Regular contractions
• Pressure on the bowel, causing a need to go to the toilet
• Waters breaking

These signs don’t always mean that birth is imminent. For example, some women lose their mucus plug weeks before giving birth. If contractions come every five minutes and last at least a minute each, you may be in active labour.

Notify your midwife, and proceed as planned, either by heading to the hospital or preparing for a home birth if that’s your plan.

What Happens When My Waters Break?

When your waters break, the fluid should be clear and odourless. If you notice blood or unusual smells, contact your midwife immediately, as this may require medical attention.

What Is Silent Labour?

“Silent labour” is a rare phenomenon where the expectant mother has contractions but feels little or no pain. The contractions are regular and intense, but they may feel more like tightenings than painful cramps.

While silent labour might sound appealing, it can still last many hours or days, leaving the mother feeling exhausted by the time labour is complete.