39th Week of Pregnancy

What changes are occurring with your body?
You most likely have not experienced a lot of changes over the last week or two. You probably have not gained any weight or noticed that you are bigger, but there are still changes that are taking place.

The closer you get to the end of your pregnancy, the more you will hear about "being effaced." Effacement is the process by which the cervix prepares for delivery. After the baby has engaged in the pelvis, it gradually drops closer to the cervix; the cervix gradually softens, shortens and becomes thinner. You may hear phrases like "ripens," or "cervical thinning" which refer to effacement.

How big is your baby?
Your baby is now between 18 and 20 ½ inches (45-51 cm) long and around 6 ½ to 8 pounds (2,92-3,6 kg).

What is happening with your baby?
Your baby is continuing to grow and working on the layer of fat underneath his/her skin. This is an important part of your baby’s ability to regulate their body temperature once they are born. Your baby is also beginning to form new skin cells which will replace older skin cells.

What should you plan for this week?
Honestly, at this point you should really plan to take it easy. Whether this is your first child or fourth, your life will not be the same once this new addition arrives. So take some time for yourself, your partner, your family, and your friends.