7800 Wolf Trail Cove, Germantown, TN 38138 • (901) 682-9222 • Open Weekdays 8:00 - 5:00
PREGNANCY TIMELINE: WEEK 40
If Mom has not given birth yet - don't panic. Only 5% of babies are born on their expected due date. In fact, most physicians will want another one or two weeks before considering your baby overdue - called "postdate" or "post term" pregnancy. Read our informative article on Postdate Pregnancy.
If you have not delivered by Week 42, your doctor will usually induce labor.
Here's what to expect when Mom does go into labor. After check in, Mom will be evaluated to determine if she is actually in labor and how far along. When you arrive at the hospital, you will be asked many questions. Try to remember the answers to the following:
- Are you having contractions? How often?
- Are you bleeding?
- Has your water broken? When did it break?
- When did you last eat? What did you eat?
- What kind of medical problems do you have?
- What medications do you take?
- Have you experienced any complications along the way?
An external fetal monitor will be used to measure frequency and duration of contractions. A pelvic exam will determine whether she is dilated and how much. You will be asked if you know whether the baby is in a breech position. They will note Mom's vital signs, including pulse, blood pressure, and temperature. All this takes time, as does labor itself. Be patient and relaxed.
When your water breaking is one of the signs of true labor. However, membranes, comprising the "bag of waters", rupture in less than 15% of pregnancies. When it does happen, the baby's head usually act as a cork at the opening of the uterus. Labor may still be hours away. Your physician may want to induce labor to avoid risk of infection if you don't go into labor in the next several hours. Soon you will be holding that warm little bundle that you have so meticulously cared for the past 39 weeks. Good luck!
Baby's Physical Development
- Crown-to-rump, baby's about 15 inches.
- Baby weighs about 7.5 pounds
- Total length is approximately 20-22 inches
- All of baby's organs are fully developed and in place.
- Fingernails are beyond the fingertips and are almost ready for trimming.
- If baby's a boy, the testes should be in the scrotum, if not, it's not a serious complication.
- At birth, baby, regardless of sex, may have swollen breasts and genitals. This is normal and will subside.
Remember, delivery cannot start until the cervix has fully dilated (10 centimeters). So try to relax. Baby will be here soon.
Time to Start Thinking About
Postpartum Depression. Postpartum depressions can range from transient "blues" following childbirth to severe, incapacitating, psychotic depressions. Studies suggest that women who experience depression after childbirth very often have had prior depressive episodes. However, for most women, postpartum depressions are transient with no adverse consequences. These episodes are hormonal in nature. Medications can be prescribed to combat the condition. Just keep a look out for symptoms and don't be afraid or ashamed to reach out for help. You've done a lot! You deserve to enjoy it.
Tips for Mom
When you return from the hospital, you will be in no mood to run out to the store for food and supplies. Stock up on basic supplies now, such as toilet paper, maxi pads, and other items for your postpartum self. Also, freeze some food. Stashing meals in the fridge and freezer will help you through the days as you spend most of your time with baby. Finally, remember your birth control. Although you won't need it for a little while yet, you need to have it on hand. Your birth control method may change after your pregnancy, especially if you are nursing. Talk to your physician about what method is best for you.
Tips for Dad
Get the car ready! Install your car seat for baby's ride home. Plus, read our Labor List: What to Take to the Hospital.
Complications to Watch For
Most pregnancies occur without any complications or problems. But there are times when your physician should be contacted immediately. The following list contains symptoms to be aware of during pregnancy.
- Vaginal bleeding
- Severe swelling of the fingers and face
- Severe abdominal pain
- Loss of fluid from the vagina, usually a gush of fluid, but sometimes a trickle or continual wetness
- A big change in the baby's movements or a lack of movement
- High fever (more than 101.6F;38.7C) or chills
- Severe vomiting or an inability to keep food or liquid down
- Blurring of vision
- Painful urination
- A headache that won't go away or a severe headache
- An injury or accident, such as a fall or automobile accident, that causes you concern about the well-being of your pregnancy
7800 Wolf Trail Cove, Germantown, TN 38138
Phone: (901) 682-9222; Fax: (901) 682-9505