Sizes are averages; from week 20 length is measured head to heel. Not sure which week you’re in? Calculate it.
Your baby at 40 weeks
Your due date! Your baby is ready to meet you. Remember that only a few babies arrive exactly on their due date. In India the average birth weight is a little under 3 kg, with a wide healthy range.
Your body at 40 weeks
You may feel impatient or anxious. Your doctor may examine you and discuss a plan if labour doesn’t begin on its own.
Common symptoms this week
- Contractions may start
- Pelvic pressure
- Impatience
Tips & to-do list
- Ask your doctor about monitoring and the plan for induction if you go past your due date.
- Report reduced movements immediately.
- Stay close to your hospital.
Check-ups and tests around this week
- Weekly antenatal visits; baby’s position and wellbeing checks
- Monitoring (NST, fluid check) and discussion about induction
Week 40 at a glance
| At 40 weeks | |
|---|---|
| Trimester | Third trimester |
| Pregnancy month | Month 9 of 9 |
| Weeks to due date | Due this week |
| Days pregnant | 280–286 days |
| Progress | 100% of 40 weeks |
When to call your doctor
Contact your doctor or go to hospital straight away if you notice:
- Reduced or changed baby movements
- Waters breaking or any bleeding
- Severe headache, vision changes, pain under the ribs
- Regular painful contractions before 37 weeks
- Severe itching of palms and soles
Questions about 40 weeks pregnant
How many months is 40 weeks pregnant?
40 weeks pregnant falls in month 9 of pregnancy, in the third trimester. For medical purposes, weeks and days are more precise than months.
How big is my baby at 40 weeks?
At 40 weeks your baby is about the size of a jackfruit (kathal) – roughly ~51.2 cm long and weighing about ~3.4 kg.
Is it normal to have no symptoms at 40 weeks?
Yes. Every pregnancy is different, and symptoms come and go. Feeling well is not a sign that something is wrong. If you have concerns, or notice any warning signs listed on this page, contact your doctor.
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Medical disclaimer: The results and information on this page are estimates for general education only. They are not a diagnosis and do not replace advice from your gynaecologist, obstetrician or midwife. If you have pain, bleeding, reduced baby movements or feel unwell, contact your doctor or call 108 immediately. Read the full disclaimer.