Nerdy Weekly Baby Size: Week 40

This week for the Nerdy Weekly Baby series!

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of your pregnancy journey, and you’re now at 40 weeks, which is a full-term nerdling!!! At this stage, your baby has reached their maximum gestational size, weighing in at around 7 to 9 pounds and measuring 19 to 22 inches in length. You almost have a Stormageddon, Dark Lord of All 🙂

So, what are some of the things you might be feeling during your 40th week of pregnancy? Let’s take a closer look at some of the physical and emotional changes you might be experiencing.

Table of Contents

Physical Changes at 40 Weeks Pregnant

By now, you may feel like you’ve been pregnant forever, but don’t worry, your little one will be here soon! Here are some of the physical changes you might be experiencing:

Braxton Hicks Contractions

You may be experiencing more frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions as your body prepares for labor. These contractions are your body’s way of practicing for the real thing, so don’t worry if they’re not painful or regular.

Increased Pressure in Pelvic Area

As your baby drops lower into your pelvis in preparation for birth, you may feel increased pressure and discomfort in this area. This can make it harder to move around and get comfortable.

Difficulty Sleeping

As your due date approaches, you may find it increasingly difficult to get a good night’s sleep. This can be due to physical discomfort, anxiety about labor and delivery, and hormonal changes.

Swelling

You may experience swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles, particularly during hot weather or after prolonged periods of standing or sitting. This is normal and usually goes away after delivery.

Emotional Changes at 40 Weeks Pregnant

Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster, and the 40th week is no exception. Here are some of the emotional changes you might be experiencing:

Excitement

As your due date approaches, you may feel excited about finally meeting your little one. You may also feel a sense of accomplishment for making it this far in your pregnancy.

Anxiety

You may feel anxious about the upcoming labor and delivery. This is normal, and there are many resources available to help you prepare and cope with your anxiety.

Impatience

You may feel impatient and ready for your baby to arrive. This is understandable, but try to remember that your little one will arrive when they’re ready.

Mixed Feelings

You may have mixed feelings about the end of your pregnancy journey. While you may be excited to meet your baby, you may also feel nostalgic for the time you spent carrying them. Just remember, you’re in the home stretch, and soon you’ll be holding your little one in your arms!