WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

My baby at 39 weeks of pregnancy

Your Baby at 39 Weeks
As big as a watermelon
Length
20.1
Weight
7.6
As you approach the finish line at 39 weeks, your baby is about the size of a watermelon, measuring roughly 20 inches in length and weighing around 7.6 pounds. 

They are fully developed and ready for birth, although the exact timing of their arrival might vary.
What's new this week?
Baby's Changes Overview
Open 3D Baby to see all changes
  • Skin Changes: The vernix coating is shedding, leading to potentially dry skin, but they'll still have that sought-after soft baby skin at birth.

  • Skull Flexibility: The baby's head has fontanelles (soft spots) to make the journey through the birth canal easier. These areas will harden over time.

  • Vision: Newborns can see up to 12 inches away, making close cuddles with parents especially meaningful.

  • Auditory Development: Your baby can hear your voice, heart, and even the gurgling of your belly, preparing them for recognizing familiar sounds after birth.

  • Reflexes: Your baby is fully capable of controlling their arms and hands, exhibiting a strong natural grasping reflex.
Their movements may feel different as they have less room to move around. The baby’s position and your cervix are checked for signs of impending labor.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
Helping baby's development
  • Capture the Moment: Take a selfie or have a photo session to document your pregnancy journey. These photos will be a cherished memory for both you and your child.

  • Yoga Ball: Gently bouncing or rocking on a yoga ball can alleviate pelvic pressure and back pain, offering comfort to both you and your baby.

  • Partner's Support: Encourage your partner to engage in gentle massage or touch to provide relief from discomfort in areas like your feet, back, and shoulders.

  • Natural Labor Induction: If you're eager to meet your baby, consider safe, natural methods to encourage labor, such as eating spicy foods, walking, or exploring acupuncture, always with your healthcare provider's approval.
Top Asked Questions
What role does amniotic fluid play in my baby's development?

Amniotic fluid surrounds your baby and provides protection, cushioning, and room for movement. It's essential for their overall development and well-being.

Can my baby hear and respond to external sounds and music?

Yes, at 39 weeks, your baby's hearing is well-developed, and they can respond to external sounds, including music and your voice.

How does my baby's brain continue to grow and mature?

Your baby's brain continues to grow and develop connections between neurons at 39 weeks, laying the foundation for cognitive development.

What is my baby's position in the womb, and does it affect labor?

By 39 weeks, most babies are in a head-down position, which is favorable for a smooth labor. Your healthcare provider will monitor their position.

Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
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All I need to know
K
Kalynn
2 Feb 2024

Soo my Dr wants to induce me next week at 39 weeks its my first baby so im very nervous but excited to meet my babygirl , if you have gotten induced how was your experience ?

6 comments
N
Nicole
My experience was very similar to my natural labor. Both only lasted 4 hrs. I see some people say Pitocin made their contractions feel worse because it’s forcing them to happen but in my experience I didn’t notice a difference because it hurts regardless. I’m also getting induced again, next week Tuesday. 🩷 And it seems no matter how many babies I have I’m always nervous.
27 Mar 2024

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C
Chy
Mine was long but not painful until the last 4 hours
27 Mar 2024

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t
tay
12 Jan 2024

Doctor ok’d for me to be induced at 39 weeks #7 more weeks to go #march 1st baby girl shall Arrive 🙏🏽🤞🏽

4 comments
j
justine
i’m due march 2nd too 🥲 good luck to you mama 🫶🏻🫶🏻!!
27 Mar 2024

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t
tay
Thank you boo and same goes for you 🙏🏽🤞🏽🥰🥰🥰🥰
27 Mar 2024

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T
Tiara
6 Dec 2023

Bless Y'all Souls & Bodies Who stay pregnant until 39 weeks & more ! Bc I refuse to!! Helll nawwww !!! I mean they do plan to induce me at 39 weeks ! 😂😂😂 but whoooo chileeeeee

12 comments
A
Ashley
Smh yeeees im 34 weeks & tryna see how I can get this baby out 😂🤦🏽‍♀️
27 Mar 2024

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M
Muffy&DaGuyz
Let me know wat u gotta do when it's time 😥😥
27 Mar 2024

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Z
Zakiaya
28 Jul 2023

Had my baby at 39 weeks 2 days Tuesday July 25th 2023 was supposed to have her July 29th

1 comments

M
Makayla
13 Jul 2023

At 39 weeks you can pucker your lips and smile at me but not come out 😂😩💙

8 comments
T
Tifanie foster
Just wow the things these babies do inside of us
27 Mar 2024

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A
Ash
They get lazy and start chilln prolly like I'm not gone get no more of that good food y'all be eating lol
27 Mar 2024

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V
Vanessa
28 Jun 2023

Induction is scheduled at 39 weeks, so July 14th!! 😆😆 my baby girl will be here soon 🥰

4 comments
B
Bonnie
Aww that’s my middle son birthday❤️ congrats !
27 Mar 2024

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C
Cassidy
Girl me too! I'm also having a Girl I'm hoping she comes next week but we'll see. July 14th I'll be 39 weeks and induced as well.
27 Mar 2024

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R
Reina
16 Jun 2023

Update baby is breeched weighing at 6 1/2 pounds. They have a C-section scheduled at 39 weeks if he flips they still want me to get induced at 39 weeks just in case he could flip again. 

2 comments
R
Rakeyia
Have your u tried a heating pad at the bottom of your stomach and an ice pack at top? They say baby will move toward the heat after a couple of days doing it
27 Mar 2024

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S
Stephanie
12 Nov 2022

I’m 39 weeks pregnant 🤰🏽 and I only have one ☝🏽 day at birth on Monday…I’m ready to meet baby girl 👶🏽👶🏽👣👣💕💕💞💞

1 comments
M
Marisela
Omg!! How exciting!! So stoked for you!! Wishing you a safe delivery
27 Mar 2024

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F
Felicia
11 Nov 2022

39 weeks today 7 days to go until 40 weeks come on little Mama your family is ready to meet you ❤️❣️

4 comments
D
Dashauna
Hope she come this week
27 Mar 2024

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F
Felicia
I hope I am at 3 CM today for My appointment so they can do a membrane sweep
27 Mar 2024

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A
Alexis
29 May 2022

Getting induced at 39 weeks..I’m excited but nervous at the same time..my baby is growing so slow..

4 comments
B
Blossom
I wish you the best love!
27 Mar 2024

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L
Lina
Wish you the very best luck too u and your family
27 Mar 2024

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