mybabybase

Third trimester

40 weeks pregnant

Baby is about the size of a small pumpkin.

Week 40 of 40 · in your third trimester · Updated

Your baby this week

Due date! Only about 5% of babies arrive on it. You're so close.

  • Officially due. Only about 5% of babies actually arrive on their due date — most come within a 2-week window before or after.
  • Baby is fully developed. Just patient.
  • Some pregnancies extend to 41 or 42 weeks safely — your provider will monitor.

Your body this week

If baby's overdue, your provider will discuss next steps. Hang in there!

  • If past due, your provider will check baby's heartbeat and amniotic fluid more often.
  • Induction is typically discussed at 41 weeks if labor hasn't started naturally.
  • Pre-eclampsia or other complications can develop — keep all appointments.

Common symptoms

  • Anything! Each day is unique
  • Strong contractions (real or practice)
  • Pressure
  • Anxiety/excitement
  • Bloody show

Things to do this week

  • Keep tracking baby's movements: at least 6 movements in 2 hours; if fewer, contact your provider or go to the hospital
  • Discuss induction options with provider if overdue
  • Keep your phone charged

For partners this week

Due date

  • Come to the past-due check-ups if you can — your provider may check on the baby more often now.
  • Keep an eye on baby's movements together.
  • Plan gentle distractions: a walk, a movie, a favourite meal.

Typical visits around this week

Based on a typical schedule in Ontario. Your doctor or midwife sets the actual timing.

  • Weekly check-ups

    Weeks 36–40

    From about 36 weeks, visits are usually weekly until birth. Your provider checks the baby's position and your health, and goes over signs of labour and when to come in.

    Questions to ask →
    • Is the baby head-down?
    • When exactly should we call or head to the hospital?
    • What's the plan if my water breaks before contractions start?
    • What happens if I go past my due date?

  • Past your due date

    Weeks 40–42

    If the baby hasn't arrived by your due date, your provider may ask you to track movements daily and may suggest extra checks, like a non-stress test of the baby's heart rate or an ultrasound of the fluid around the baby. Induction is usually discussed around 41 to 42 weeks.

    Questions to ask →
    • How often will the baby be checked from here?
    • When would you recommend an induction, and how does it work?
    • What are our choices if we'd rather wait a little longer?
    • What changes mean we should come in right away?

A flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine are recommended at any stage of pregnancy. The flu shot is given during flu season, so the timing depends on when you're pregnant.

When to call your doctor or midwife

Bleeding, fluid leaking, a bad headache or vision changes, or baby moving less than usual all need a call. See the warning signs and who to call →

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Further reading from health authorities