Third Trimester

Week 39 of Pregnancy

Baby size: About the size of ready for birth.

Main focus: Birth preparation, monitoring movement, danger signs and delivery planning.

Baby development

During week 39, your baby continues important growth and development. This week is part of the third trimester, when the body and organs continue forming, growing or preparing for birth.

Full term is near or already reached. Labour may begin anytime, so stay prepared.

What mothers may feel

Mothers may notice shortness of breath, pelvic pressure, tiredness, sleep changes and stronger baby movements. Every pregnancy is different, so some women may feel many changes while others feel only a few.

Rest, hydration, healthy food and clinic follow-up all help support a safer pregnancy.

Health tips for week 39

Attend your scheduled antenatal visits and review your birth plan.
Know where you will deliver and how you will travel if labour begins.
Prepare baby clothes, clean cloths, important documents and emergency contacts.
Go to a clinic or hospital immediately for bleeding, seizures, severe headache, labour signs or decreased baby movement.

When to seek help

Seek urgent care if you have heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever, swelling of the face or hands, severe headache, seizures, leaking fluid, or reduced baby movement later in pregnancy.

Clinic reminder

Keep attending antenatal visits according to your nurse, midwife or doctor’s advice. Clinic visits help monitor the health of both mother and baby and can identify problems early.