Pregnancy: Week 39

Pregnancy has reached the middle of the ninth month. If you have not given birth yet, the likelihood that your baby will be born at 39 weeks is very high.

The baby is completely ready to enter the world. The mother’s body is ready as well. There is very little time left.

How the Baby Feels

The baby is fully formed and continues to grow. The weight of this almost independent little person is now about 3–3.5 kg, and the length is 50–53 cm. While in the womb, the baby receives all nutrients through the umbilical cord and placenta, and the lungs are ready for the first breath. In the intestines, villi that help move food have already formed, and the stomach is producing enzymes necessary for digestion.

There is no longer enough space for somersaults — the baby has grown quite large. The skin has taken on a pleasant light pink color, indicating well-developed subcutaneous fat.

The baby’s vision is adapted to the distance of the mother’s face during breastfeeding — about 20–30 cm. Sensitivity to sharpness and contrast is developing; even now, the baby can perceive bright colors, movement, and flickering.

Umbilical Cord Cutting Rules

Throughout pregnancy, the umbilical cord has performed a vital function. After birth, it also requires careful handling.

At 39 weeks of pregnancy, there is a possibility that the umbilical cord may be wrapped around the baby’s neck. Taking this into account, obstetricians deliver the baby very carefully, wait until the pulsation of the umbilical cord stops, then clamp it on both sides, disinfect it with alcohol, and cut it.

After cutting, the short stump of the umbilical cord dries up and falls off. All of this usually happens within 5–7 days after birth. Another pleasant outcome is that the baby will have a neat, well-formed belly button.

How the Mother Feels

By 39 weeks of pregnancy, you will likely have gained 11–16 kg. Weight gain usually stops, and in some cases you may even lose a small amount of weight.

The height of the uterine fundus from the pubic symphysis is 36–40 cm, and from the navel — 16–20 cm. The uterus descends, and the presenting part of the baby begins to enter the upper part of the birth canal.

Signs of labor may appear at any moment. The placenta is aging, so to prevent oxygen deprivation in the baby, try to spend more time in fresh air. The uterus presses more strongly on the bladder, and you may feel sharp pains in the perineal area. Contractions may begin — false or real. Whether labor has started can be determined by the woman herself or with the help of a doctor. The most important thing during contractions is not to panic. With God’s will, you will give birth on time and successfully.

Pregnancy Week 39. Only a few last “difficulties” remain, and then your baby will be in your arms. Discomforts at 39 weeks may include: a hardening belly, intermittent pulling pains, and swelling of the arms and legs. All of this will soon pass. After the baby is born, you will forget about all these sensations.

Pregnancy Week 39 — Signs of Labor

pulling pain in the back and lower back;

passage of the mucus plug;

abdominal spasms (more than 5 times per hour);

bloody discharge;

increased appetite;

diarrhea or loose stools;

leakage of amniotic fluid.

Monitor your condition carefully — the signs of labor will guide you. Your body itself will tell you what needs to be done.

Second Pregnancy

If you are at 39 weeks of pregnancy and this is your second pregnancy, keep in mind that the signs of labor will be similar to those of the first pregnancy. However, the labor itself usually does not proceed the same way: because the baby passes through the birth canal faster, the entire process tends to be quicker. Your body “remembers” the first experience and knows what to do. Trust your body — everything will be fine.

Mutual Support

Do you know what you need most right now? Support. The care and encouragement of relatives, loved ones, and people who truly care about you. Sometimes a single kind word can replace many medications and numerous doctors.

Are you at 39–40 weeks of pregnancy? Do you know what your baby needs most right now? Your support. The baby is increasingly eager to see the world. Help your little one. Talk to your baby and say, “Everything will be fine.” And you will see — with God’s will, EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE.