Week 39
Hi,
.
You're just moments away from meeting your baby.
Let’s embrace the emotions that come with week thirty-nine together.
19.96
inches long
116
ounces
This week, your baby is about the size of a big, adorable turtle!
Just like a turtle with its sturdy shell and resilient nature, your little one is fully prepared for the journey ahead.
With every tiny wiggle, it’s as if your baby is saying, “Mommy, I’m on my way!” In these final days in the womb, your baby is eagerly waiting to meet you.
Your Baby's
Development
Your little one is nearly ready to greet the world!
Here’s what’s happening with your baby this week
Eyes
Your baby’s eyes are still developing and will be more responsive to light after birth.
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Brain
The brain has grown significantly—about one-third heavier than it was at week 35!
Lungs
The lungs are now mature enough for your baby to breathe on their own.
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Liver
Still fine-tuning its development in preparation for life outside the womb.
Skin
Thanks to increased fat stores, your baby can now regulate their own body temperature.
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Vernix
The creamy protective coating is mostly gone, though a bit may remain in folds like the underarms or neck.
Digestive System
It's holding meconium, the dark green first poop your baby will pass after birth.
Gender Traits
In baby boys, the testicles have fully descended into the scrotum.
Umbilical Cord
It's now around 20 to 24 inches long, still serving as the lifeline between you and your baby.
Fetal Position
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Movements
Space is tight now, so kicks may feel smaller or less frequent—but they shouldn’t stop entirely. You should feel at least 10 movements within a two-hour span. If not, contact your doctor.
Positioning
The best position for birth is head down, with your baby’s face turned toward your spine.
If your baby is still breech (head up), your doctor may discuss possible interventions during delivery.
If your baby is facing outward toward your belly (occiput posterior), labor may take a bit longer but can usually still progress smoothly.
You're so close to meeting your tiny miracle!
Movements
At 34 weeks, your baby has less room to move, so their movements might feel a bit more gentle or limited.
Since they’re sleeping longer now, you may notice a calmer, more rhythmic pattern of kicks and wiggles.
Labor Signs
in Week 37
Lightening
As your baby drops lower into your pelvis, the pressure on your lungs may ease, making it easier to breathe. This is known as lightening and is a sign that labor may be near.
Water Breaking
A steady trickle or sudden gush of fluid could mean that your amniotic sac has ruptured. If this happens, be sure to contact your doctor right away.
Regular and Painful Contractions
When contractions start coming at regular intervals and grow stronger over time, it might be the beginning of true labor.
Losing the Mucus Plug
A thick, jelly-like discharge may appear as your cervix begins to open. This is a normal sign that your body is getting ready for labor.
Bloody Show
A pink or brown-tinged discharge can happen as small blood vessels in your cervix break while it softens and dilates.
Back Pain
A dull, persistent ache in your lower back, which may radiate toward your abdomen, could be an early labor symptom.
Cramps and Diarrhea
Hormonal shifts might cause mild cramping or even diarrhea. Think of it as your body’s natural way of clearing the way for baby’s arrival.
Your body is making its final preparations for the big moment.
Here are some signs that your little one might be on the way very soon
Safe Sex During the 32nd Week of Pregnancy
Prioritize Comfort Over Routine
Experiment with positions that reduce pressure on your belly, such as side-lying or seated support. Let comfort—not performance—guide the experience.
Stay Emotionally Tuned In
This is a tender time. Talk openly about what feels good emotionally as well as physically. Sometimes, a cuddle or massage means more than anything else.
Watch for Warning Signs
If you notice bleeding, fluid leakage, pain, or regular contractions, stop and contact your doctor. Your comfort and safety always come first.
Know That Intimacy Has Many Forms
Closeness doesn't always mean intercourse. Holding hands, slow dancing, or simply resting together can nurture connection just as deeply.
If your pregnancy is healthy, sex at 34 weeks is usually safe.
Your baby is protected, and intimacy can be a beautiful way to stay emotionally close.
Just listen to your body, move gently, and focus on connection—not perfection.
Symptoms
you may experience
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may feel irregular, mildly painful contractions as your body prepares for labor. These usually ease if you change your position.
Pelvic Pressure and “Lightning” Sensation
As your baby drops further into the pelvis, you might feel increased pressure in that area. You could also experience sharp, sudden pains—often called “lightning”—as baby presses on nerve endings.
Vaginal Discharge
A thick, mucus-like discharge—possibly tinged with blood—may indicate the loss of your mucus plug and the beginning of cervical dilation.
Sleep Troubles
A growing belly, general discomfort, and labor anxiety can make it harder to sleep through the night. You might find yourself waking often and feeling unrested.
Bloody Show
Light pink or brown-tinged discharge can appear as your cervix starts to open, signaling labor may be near.
Heartburn
Your baby’s position and pressure on your stomach can cause acid to move up into your esophagus, leading to heartburn.
Frequent Urination
With your baby putting more pressure on your bladder, you might need to urinate more often.
Diarrhea
Hormonal shifts can speed up digestion, leading to loose stools. Think of it as your body’s way of “cleansing” in preparation for birth.
Hemorrhoids
Increased blood flow and pressure in the pelvic area can cause swollen rectal veins, resulting in discomfort or itching.
Back Pain
As your baby presses on your lower back, you might feel persistent aches. A warm bath or gentle massage can bring relief.
Colostrum Leakage
You may notice a yellowish fluid leaking from your breasts—this is colostrum, your baby’s first nourishment after birth.
As you approach the very end of your pregnancy, both your body and mind are getting ready for labor.
Here are some symptoms you might experience this week
What
Should
You Eat?
Vitamins & Fiber
Bananas, apples, mangoes, spinach, and broccoli are great sources of essential nutrients.
Calcium
Milk, cheese, and yogurt help strengthen your baby’s growing bones.
Carbohydrates
Whole meals, bread, pasta, and potatoes provide lasting energy. Whole grains and breakfast cereals can also help relieve constipation.
Protein
Include lean meats like chicken, fish, and eggs to support muscle and tissue growth.
Folic Acid
Leafy greens, brown rice, and fortified breads and cereals are key to your baby’s brain and spinal development.
What to Limit
Cut back on tea and coffee, as they can interfere with iron absorption.
Try to avoid processed snacks and sugary treats when possible.
Vitamin D
Eggs and oily fish are great sources. A vitamin D supplement may also be recommended by your doctor.
This week, nutrition plays an important role in supporting both your well-being and your baby’s healthy development.
Here are some nourishing foods to include in your diet
Physical Activities
& Self-Care
Kegel Exercises
Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and may reduce the risk of tearing during vaginal delivery.
Pelvic Tilts
Help improve abdominal flexibility and relieve lower back pain.
Tailor Sitting (Butterfly Stretch)
Strengthens your thighs and lower back while promoting pelvic flexibility.
Prenatal Exercises
Activities like yoga, walking, and swimming are great for building strength and keeping your joints flexible.
Alongside a balanced diet, gentle physical activity and relaxing self-care routines can help prepare your body for birth and ease common discomforts
If anything feels unusual, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor.
Make sure your hospital bag is ready, and if your water breaks, stay calm, take deep breaths, and inform your partner or your doctor.
Whats Happening
to Your Body?
Larger and Lower Belly
As your baby drops deeper into the pelvis, your belly may look lower and feel heavier. You might find it easier to breathe, but also feel increased pelvic pressure.
Breast Changes
Your breasts may feel fuller and more sensitive. The areolas can darken, and you might notice colostrum (your baby’s first milk) leaking—a beautiful sign that your body is getting ready to nourish your little one.
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Itchy and Sensitive Skin
As your belly stretches, your skin might feel more itchy or sensitive. Applying a gentle moisturizer can help soothe any discomfort.
As your body prepares for labor, you may notice some new physical shifts.
Here’s what to expect this week
Whats Happening
to Your Emotions?
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Mixed Feelings
As birth approaches, it’s normal to feel both excited and anxious. These emotions are part of preparing for motherhood.
Mood Swings
Hormones may cause quick emotional shifts. One moment you're happy, the next a bit overwhelmed—and that’s okay.
Nesting
You might feel a strong urge to clean and organize. It’s your natural way of getting ready for baby.
A swirl of emotions is perfectly natural during this time.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take breaks. Be gentle with yourself, the big day is almost here!
Quick Reminder
If any of these signs become more intense or feel unusual, contact your doctor right away.
Especially if you have medical conditions like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta issues, or signs of infection, your doctor may recommend inducing labor.
Quick note!
Babies born during this period are considered late preterm and may need extra medical support for breathing, jaundice, or infection. Early medical attention is important.
If you're not experiencing any concerning symptoms, keep up with your regular prenatal check-ups and take care of yourself.
Your Growing Belly and Fundal Height
By this week of pregnancy, your belly has become noticeably rounder and continues to grow. Your baby is now strong enough that you may even feel kicks reaching all the way up to your ribs.
Final Preparations!
This week, the excitement is at its peak for both you and your baby! Make sure your hospital bag is packed and your birth plan is reviewed. Stay mindful of any signs of labor, and try to focus on rest and relaxation
Quick Tip!
Ease her discomfort with a gentle neck or foot massage, and help plan for postpartum needs. The most valuable support is your steady presence, remind her she’s not in this
Preterm
Labor Signs
to Watch
This Week
Five or More Contractions in One Hour
Regular, rhythmic tightening that doesn’t go away.
Leaking Fluid from the Vagina:
This may be a sign that your amniotic sac has ruptured.
Abdominal Cramps
May occur with or without diarrhea.
Menstrual-Like Pelvic Pain
Can feel rhythmic and persistent.
Pelvic Pressure
Often caused by the baby dropping lower into the pelvis.
Lower Back Pain
Can be dull and constant or come and go.
Changes in Vaginal Discharge
May become pink, bloody, or noticeable
Labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy is considered preterm.
Here are some signs to watch for during week 34
When Should
You Call
Doctor?
Bleeding
Vaginal bleeding similar in amount to a period.
Reduced Baby Movement
If you notice significantly fewer movements from your baby over a 24-hour period.
Water Breaking
A steady leak or sudden gush of fluid due to ruptured membranes.
Regular and Intense Contractions
Strong contractions that come at regular intervals and gradually become more intense.
Fever
A noticeable rise in body temperature.
Blurred Vision
Sudden problems with vision, such as blurriness or seeing double.
Dizziness or Fainting
A sense of losing balance or consciousness.
Abdominal or Chest Pain
Persistent or severe pain in your stomach or chest.
Sudden Swelling in Hands or Face
A noticeable and rapid increase in swelling.
Severe Headache
A sudden, intense headache that doesn’t go away with rest.
As you approach your due date, it’s important to stay alert to any unusual signs.
If you notice any of the following, contact your doctor immediately
At 24 weeks, premature babies have a one in two chance of survival with proper hospital care and access to a well-equipped Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). This highlights the importance of being prepared for early delivery and having access to the necessary medical support.
To monitor your overall health and detect any late-pregnancy concerns.
To check sugar and protein levels, which can indicate gestational diabetes or signs of preeclampsia.
To assess your baby's growth and the size of your uterus.
To make sure your baby's heartbeat is strong and steady.
Fetal Position: Your doctor will check whether your baby is in the optimal position for delivery.
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Fetal Movements: Are my baby’s movements within a normal range?
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Delivery Options: Would a vaginal birth or a cesarean be more appropriate in my case?
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Labor Induction: Is there a possibility that labor might need to be induced?
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VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean): If I’ve had a C-section before, is a vaginal birth still an option?
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Your OB-GYN Visit This Week
At your 39th-week checkup, your obstetrician will perform a variety of assessments to ensure both you and your baby are healthy and ready for labor.
When you feel contractions, try walking around or lying on your left side. Notice if they become stronger or more frequent. Keep track of how many you feel—this helps your doctor understand what’s happening. If there are no major complications, medications may be given to slow the contractions.
If you notice a steady, watery discharge, it could be amniotic fluid. Use a sanitary pad and go to the hospital right away to prevent infection. Your doctor may give you IV antibiotics to protect both you and your baby.
If you see vaginal bleeding, use a sanitary pad and head to the hospital as soon as possible so your doctor can check for internal causes.
Ask your partner for a gentle massage, or use a warm compress to ease the discomfort. If the pain continues, call your doctor—they will check if it may be early labor.
Tips for
Coping with
Preterm Labor
Here are some gentle tips to help you recognize the signs of preterm labor and know what to do
Is There
a Risk Of
Miscarriage?
Structural
abnormalities
Uncontrolled
maternal diabetes
or exposure to
teratogens
Infections
Sexually
transmitted
diseases
Hormonal
abnormalities
Unbalanced
lifestyle
The risk of miscarriage at 19 weeks gestation is very rare, but the possibility of pregnancy loss in the second trimester is not completely eliminated
-Approximately 1-5% of pregnancy losses occur between 13 and 19 weeks of pregnancy.
- Of these losses, 24% are due to chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should contact your doctor immediately
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Severe abdominal cramps
Intense pain in the lower abdomen or back. -
Bleeding
Bleeding can be light spotting or more intense
Signs of Miscarriage
at 18 Weeks
To reduce the risk of miscarriage
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Adopting a healthy lifestyle
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Detecting possible complications with early pregnancy tests
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Regularly attending the treatments and prenatal check-ups recommended by your doctor
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Always consult your doctor before using herbal supplements
Sharing every change you experience this week, big or small, with your doctor will ease your worries. Remember, with healthy living habits and guidance from your doctor, you can be one step closer to safely embracing your little miracle.
How to
Prevent Miscarriage?
Unsafe
Plants
in Pregnancy
Saw palm
Dong Quai
Goldenseal
Ephedra
Passion flower
Pay D'Arco
Yohimbe
Black gentian
Roman chamomile
Blue gentian
Dandelion
Chamomile
Stinging nettle
Aloe
Mint leaf
Ginseng
Fireweed
Cassia
Kava Kava
Evening flower
These plants can cause uterine contractions that can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or damage fetal development
Safe
Plants
in Pregnancy
Red raspberry leaf
Peppermint leaf
Ginger root
Oats and oat straw
Slippery elm bark
Each herb works differently , your doctor will know what’s best for you. When using herbs, eat well and drink plenty of water. Always choose what’s safest for you and your baby.
With your doctor’s approval, you may consume the following herbs in moderation
Activities like walking, kegel exercises, and squats can help strengthen your pelvic muscles and keep your energy up.
Make sure not to overexert yourself. Rest whenever you need to.
In your third trimester, aim to consume around 450 extra calories a day. Choose nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Wear loose, breathable fabrics and opt for flat shoes to stay comfy.
Try to stay calm and practice gentle breathing techniques to relax.
Spend time with your partner, family, and friends. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—support is so valuable during this time.
Sleep on your side and avoid lying flat on your back. Use pillow support to help you feel more comfortable through the night.
Labor can take time, especially in the early stages. Keep yourself distracted and relaxed with your favorite books, podcasts, shows, or magazines.
Tips for You
To support your health and comfort as you approach delivery, here are some gentle and useful suggestions
Must-Have Products
for This Week!
Make sure insurance papers and other essential documents are complete and easy to access.
Double-check that your partner’s bag has all the necessities (comfy clothes, hygiene items, phone charger, etc.).
Keep a list of family and friends’ phone numbers handy and ensure your partner has access too.
Learn about hospital policies and review what to expect during labor.
Listen to your partner’s birth wishes and preferences, and reassure her that you're by her side every step of the way.
When labor begins, stay calm and follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
Make sure the baby’s car seat is securely installed and tested for the ride home.
Prepare some easy-to-freeze meals (like turkey meatballs, veggie chili, or chicken soup) to save time after the baby arrives.
Double-check that the baby’s room is set up and fully stocked with essentials.
Tips for Partner
This week, your support means everything. Here are some thoughtful ways to help your partner and prepare for the big day
Movie Pick
of the week
Boss Baby 2
Family Business
This fun and heartwarming sequel highlights the power of family and the sweet chaos of parenting. Tim and his brother Ted have grown up and gone separate waysuntil baby Tina, a BabyCorp agent, reveals a secret mission that brings them back together to uncover the truth behind Tabitha’s elite school.
Watching this during pregnancy offers a light, joyful perspective on family life and the adventure of becoming parents.
A great pick for fans of the first movie or anyone who enjoys animated family stories!
Book Pick
of the week
The Wonder Weeks
Frans X. Plooij
This insightful book helps you understand the mental and physical “leaps” your baby will go through during their early development. Frans X. Plooij explains how your baby’s perception and learning abilities change dramatically during specific weeks, and gives practical tips on how to support them during these transitions.
Reading The Wonder Weeks while pregnant prepares you to meet your baby’s developmental needs with patience and love. It’s a great way to build emotional awareness and confidence as you step into parenthood.
Name Suggestions
of the week
Theo
Theo is of Greek origin and means “gift of God.” With its sacred and profound meaning, this name reflects a loving, wise, and generous character.
Theo also signifies a personality filled with compassion and natural leadership.
Penelope
Penelope is of Greek origin and means “weaver.” This name symbolizes intelligence, patience, and grace, suggesting that your baby will grow to be a gentle, creative, and patient individual.
Penelope also represents a spirit full of loyalty and wisdom.
Share Your Week with Us!
Every week of pregnancy is a new chapter, a unique experience…
How was your week? How are you feeling? Share your little joys, excitements, or questions with us!
Your experiences can inspire and support other moms-to-be on the same journey.
Lie on your left side and rest, or take a gentle walk to see if the contractions ease.
If they become stronger and more frequent, contact your doctor right away.Use a clean sanitary pad to monitor the fluid.
Go to the hospital to prevent infection and allow your care team to assess the situation.If you notice vaginal bleeding, use a pad to track the amount.
Seek medical attention immediately—call your doctor or head to your birth center.Try gentle massage or a warm compress to ease the discomfort.
If the pain persists or worsens, reach out for professional support.This position may help ease contractions.
Note the frequency and duration, and report them if they continue.
What to Do?
Yes, giving birth at 39 weeks is considered safe. By this time, your baby’s organs have fully developed and they are completely ready to meet the world. However, medical interventions such as labor induction or a cesarean delivery may be recommended depending on your and your baby's health conditions.
Absolutely. Preparing for birth at this stage is normal. Labor may be induced based on factors such as your health, the baby's condition, number of fetuses, or the duration of your pregnancy. If your doctor suggests this, they will explain the entire process to ensure you feel comfortable and informed.
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Some commonly used methods include:
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Medical methods: Vaginal gels, medications like misoprostol.
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Mechanical methods: Use of tools such as a Foley catheter.
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Natural methods: Acupuncture, castor oil, sex, herbal supplements.
However, always consult your doctor before trying any of these. Every woman’s body is different, and medical guidance ensures safety.
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Here's a checklist for your hospital bag:
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For yourself: Comfortable clothes, underwear, slippers, hygiene products (toothbrush, hairbrush, etc.), spare underwear.
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For your baby: Newborn outfits, blanket, diapers, baby wipes.
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For comfort and entertainment: A book, headphones, snacks, and a water bottle.
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Documents: ID, insurance papers, and your birth plan.
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FAQ
Explore & Learn
I hope this blog has provided you with helpful information about pregnancy while also making your reading experience enjoyable. Remember, the details shared here are purely for awareness, entertainment, and educational purposes.
If you have any questions or concerns during this journey, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Wishing you a healthy and love-filled pregnancy!
SEE YOU NEXT WEEK WITH NEW AND EXCITING INSIGHTS!
For Underweight Moms-to-Be
or Those Struggling to Gain Weight
Gender Screening on Ultrasound
However, for the most accurate results, it’s typically best to wait until around 20 weeks,
when gender differences become more pronounced. While gender predictions can be made as early as week 16, waiting a few more weeks can provide a clearer and more definitive answer
Baby Boy
On an ultrasound, the genitalia of a baby boy may appear as a snail or turtle
shape. This image can be a clue that your baby is a boy.
Baby Girl
For a baby girl, the ultrasound may show three distinct lines (the outer edges of the vulva). These lines are indicative of a baby girl.