40 Weeks Pregnant

You are there, you've made it. Congratulations on reaching the 40th week of your pregnancy. Although you have probably thought many times you would never get to this milestone, take it as a personal accomplishment if you have. You may be heartily sick of the whole pregnancy deal by now and just want it to be over and done with. You feel and look uncomfortable and your energy levels aren t what they usually are. It's hard to focus on anything for too long or make plans in case the baby comes. It's as if your life is on hold for the meantime.

Where's the mop and bucket?

However, not all women see getting to 40 weeks pregnant as cause for a well-earned rest. Some get into a frenzy of cleaning now and see dirt lurking in every corner. No room is immune and getting the house clean and organised for the baby's arrival becomes their number 1 priority. This 'nesting' phenomenon is well known and does make sense in terms of organising a clean, safe environment for the new baby, however take it easy on your body. You are 40 weeks pregnant!

Your physical changes this week

• Lots of Braxton Hicks contractions this week which will promote a surge of oxygenated blood to your uterus and the baby. Sometimes they may seem quite fierce but unless they are painful and regular don t be concerned. If you find they bother you, a warm shower or a change of position usually helps them to ease.
• If your baby has engaged in your pelvis your body shape will change and people may comment on the fact that you "have dropped". Although this means you can breathe a little easier, the extra pressure on your bladder is impossible to ignore. Your relationship with the toilet may be the closest one you have this week. Have trust that things are close to improving.
• If you have a sudden gush of fluid from your vagina, a series of regular, painful uterine contractions which are coming approximately every 15 minutes or a steady, continuous pain in your lower back, check with your maternity care provider. These can all be symptoms of true, early labour.
• You will be feeling very heavy and congested in your pelvis this week. If you've had a baby before it can feel as if there really isn t much holding the baby in, especially when you are standing. Your pelvic muscles are working overtime in supporting the concentrated weight of your uterus and like an overstretched sling, they are sagging at the critical points. Do them a favour and sit when you can. Find a comfortable chair and set yourself up with a drink, a good book and the phone by your side. You don t need to explain yourself to anyone when you are 40 weeks pregnant, this is a waiting game.
• The skin over your tummy is stretched taut and tight like a drum. Your belly button looks as if it's been turned inside out and your stretch marks look a vivid red or purple colour. You ll find it hard to imagine your belly could stretch any more but if you go past term, chances are it will have to. If you wrap your hands around, underneath your tummy, your fingers may not even touch.