WeMoms
9 Apr 2024

Your body at 39 weeks of pregnancy

Your Body at 39 Weeks
You’ve reached week 39 of your pregnancy and your due date is finally here

Remember that your body has been preparing for this milestone for a very long time, so try not to stress out too much.

Paying close attention to what’s happening to your body each day this week can signal when labor will start.
Juliette
Midwife for 8+ years
Symptoms of the week
Insomnia

Labor Stress

Labor Contractions

Labor stress: From excitement to anxiety, it's normal to feel a mix of emotions as you await the arrival of your baby, accompanied by fears and uncertainties about labor and delivery.

Cervical Changes: The onset of cervical dilation and effacement signifies your body's preparation for labor, although it may not always signal immediate onset.

Braxton Hicks Contractions: False alarms in the form of practice contractions, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, may add to the anticipation of labor's onset.

Insomnia Challenges: Sleep disturbances, fueled by physical discomfort and emotional stress, may heighten as you approach childbirth, posing challenges to restful sleep.

Digestive Upheaval: Diarrhea, a common occurrence in late pregnancy, can be a sign of impending labor as hormonal fluctuations affect digestive patterns.
Strong contractions may begin soon. Stay informed and confident.
International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics
Is it normal?
Embracing Labor Fears: Acknowledge and validate your fears about labor, recognizing them as valid concerns while fostering confidence in your ability to navigate childbirth.

Cervical Progression: Trust in your body's innate wisdom as cervical changes unfold, paving the way for your baby's journey through the birth canal.

Braxton Hicks Awareness: Differentiate between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions, understanding that these practice contractions serve as a preparation for childbirth.

Insomnia Management: Implement relaxation techniques and create a conducive sleep environment to alleviate insomnia symptoms and promote restful sleep.

Digestive Adjustments: View digestive changes such as diarrhea as natural manifestations of your body's preparation for labor, signaling the imminent arrival of your baby.
Top Asked Questions
Top 5 questions answered
What are some common challenges that new parents face, and how can we prepare for them?

Common challenges for new parents include sleep deprivation, adjusting to new routines, and managing stress. To prepare, you can enlist the help of family and friends, take care of yourself, and seek professional support if needed.

How can I support my partner during childbirth and postpartum?

You can support your partner by attending childbirth classes, being present during labor and delivery, providing emotional and physical support, and helping with household tasks and childcare after the baby is born.

When should I schedule a postpartum checkup, and what will it involve?

You should schedule a postpartum checkup with your healthcare provider within a few weeks of giving birth. It will involve a physical exam, discussion of any concerns, and planning for ongoing care.

What are some common breastfeeding challenges, and how can I overcome them?

Common breastfeeding challenges include nipple pain, low milk supply, and difficulty latching. You can overcome them by seeking support from a lactation consultant, trying different positions and techniques, and being patient and persistent.

What are some formula feeding tips and guidelines?

Formula feeding tips include choosing a formula appropriate for your baby's needs, sterilizing bottles and nipples, following the recommended feeding schedule, and burping the baby after each feeding.

Taking care of yourself
Bedtime Rituals: Establish a soothing bedtime routine to promote relaxation and prepare your body for restful sleep, incorporating calming activities and minimizing screen time.

Optimal Sleep Environment: Create a sleep sanctuary with comfortable bedding, dim lighting, and minimal distractions to facilitate uninterrupted sleep and rejuvenation.

Pregnancy Pillow Comfort: Invest in a pregnancy pillow to alleviate discomfort and support your growing bump, enhancing comfort during sleep and relaxation.

Hygiene Rituals: Embrace the therapeutic benefits of warm showers or baths before bedtime, promoting muscle relaxation and enhancing sleep quality.

Mindful Entertainment: Opt for soothing activities such as reading or watching calming movies to unwind before bedtime, promoting relaxation and easing into restful sleep.
Teaser for next week
Next week might be the week! The week where you water breaks or you start having contractions. 

Check back next week to see what they are all about!
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All I need to know
K
Kristin
2 Feb 2024

My induction is set for March 1st at 7am. I will be 39w and 3d. However I know my body and I’m not about to make it to March 1st. I’m calling it NOW I say between the 14th-20th she will be here !!

1 comments

i
ivy
6 May 2023

39w+2 💙💙 Just waiting on him to come now! If anyone has any tips to help, let me know😭 Been stuck at 2cm for a month now

5 comments
👶
👶🏽💋Picklebuttmama💋👶🏽
Castor oil, hot food, cold Coca Cola
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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👶
👶🏽💋Picklebuttmama💋👶🏽
Hope that helps ❤️
27 Mar 2024

Answer


D
Danette
3 May 2023

When do they start measuring your cervix? I'm 39w, been having weekly appointments for the passed 3 weeks but so far all they've done is take urine sample, check blood pressure and do the stress test. How do they measure it? Is it a physical or on the sonogram? I'm going to ask at my next appointment but I'd assume they would have brought it up by now.

3 comments
D
Danette
so I could be dilated alittle and not know? There's been an increase in weird uncomfortable feelings down there... but I just assumed I wasn't because they haven't brought it up.
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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S
Samantha
5 Dec 2022

39w today babygirl 🤞🏼🤞🏼 Work till Wednesday & they're inducing us Thursday! So ready to meet our sweet girl!! 💝💝

2 comments
C
Cryss
Super mom ! ❤️✨
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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A
Audrey
23 Nov 2022

39w 5d, todays my due date and still no baby!!😩 does walking and squats actually help induce? Lmk what helps☺️

2 comments
R
Rainey
Yes have you dilated any
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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T
Tammy
30 Oct 2022

Is it normal to not have any contractions for a couple days? I’m 39w and 1d and I haven’t felt any yesterday or today🤔 I normally feel them during the week when I’m at work. Is it something I need to worry about?

11 comments
ℚ𝕦𝕖𝕖𝕟𝔹❤️🤰🏽🥰
No mamas it’s perfectly normal I am going thou that now no contractions but I’ve been throwing up like crazy lately and having diarrhea I will be 39 weeks tomorrow
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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A
Alina
Well I would get Braxton hicks whenever I was working really hard but I actually had contractions for two days before my water broke… it would start and then stop and they weren’t at a regular intervals either, so I didn’t know if I should go to the hospital..: Finally when I thought my water broke I went in and it turns out I was already 5 cm dilated.
27 Mar 2024

Answer


T
Tammy
29 Oct 2022

39w today and man, I’m so tired. Baby boy needs to hurry cuz mommy and daddy are more than ready!

2 comments
U
UnrulyCoolie
❤️❤️❤️❤️
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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ℚ𝕦𝕖𝕖𝕟𝔹❤️🤰🏽🥰
❤️❤️❤️❤️🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
27 Mar 2024

Answer


B
Brittney
20 Oct 2022

My water broke a little over a hour ago. I'm 39w 2d. How long did you wait to go to the hospital when your water broke?

12 comments
P
Priscilla
My doctor told me to go to the hospital as soon as my water breaks don’t wait for contractions. 🤔
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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R
ReRe
As soon as it breaks
27 Mar 2024

Answer


R
Rose
2 Oct 2022

Hello Guys I’m having pelvic pain and feeling nauseous all day lots of contractions too . Is that mean I should go to hospital? I’m 39w pregnant

12 comments
C
Cosette
Your so close to delivery I would go to make sure everything is ok and to see what’s going on even if your sent home atleast you know
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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N
Nana 🤎
10 Aug 2022

8 Monthssss today 🥰💓 32 weeks! C section scheduled for 39w but they think I'll have her sooner 😂♥️

3 comments
J
Jasmine
Me too I’m 28 weeks 3 days Ima have C-section at 39w (if he doesn’t come earlier but I think he will lol)
27 Mar 2024

Answer

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N
Nana 🤎
Good luck mamas
27 Mar 2024

Answer


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