40 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms: The Big Moment Has Arrived

40 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms – You’ve made it to 40 weeks pregnant—a huge milestone that marks the official due date. While only 5% of babies are born exactly on their due date, your little one could arrive any day now. At this stage, your body is fully prepared for birth, and several intense 40 weeks pregnant symptoms are common as labor approaches—or begins.

In this guide, we’ll cover what’s happening with your baby and your body, how to handle the discomforts of the final week, and when to make that all-important trip to the hospital.

Baby at 40 Weeks: Ready to Meet the World 👶

Your baby is now fully developed, weighing about 3.4 to 3.6 kg and measuring around 20 inches long. Their organs are fully functional, and their skin has lost its lanugo and vernix coating. Their position is head-down, and they’re tucked tightly in your pelvis.

They’re just waiting for the right hormonal signal to begin the journey into your arms.

Most Common 40 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms

⏰ Symptom #1: Labor Contractions

The most expected 40 weeks pregnant symptoms are true labor contractions.

Characteristics of true labor:

• Rhythmic, increasing in intensity
• Occur at regular intervals
• Accompanied by back pain and pelvic pressure

Tips:

• Use a contraction timer
• Breathe deeply through each wave
• Head to the hospital when advised by your provider

💧 Symptom #2: Water Breaking

This can happen before or during labor. It might feel like a gush or slow trickle.

Next steps:

• Note the time and color of the fluid
• Avoid using tampons or taking baths
• Call your doctor immediately

⚖️ Symptom #3: Cervical Dilation

As labor begins, your cervix will soften, thin, and dilate.

You may experience:

• Cramps or backache
• Bloody show (tinged mucus discharge)
• Intense pressure

Things to do:

• Rest as much as possible
• Time your symptoms
• Stay in touch with your doctor

🧘 Symptom #4: Emotional Swings and Anxiety

Uncertainty about labor can cause mood shifts.

Tips to stay calm:

• Practice mindfulness or guided breathing
• Lean on your support system
• Journal your thoughts

🍽️ Symptom #5: Changes in Appetite and Digestion

Many women report either a final burst of hunger—or a total loss of it.

Also common:

• Loose stools
• Gas or nausea

Suggestions:

• Eat small, light meals
• Avoid heavy or greasy foods
• Stay hydrated

Other Common 40 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms

40 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms: When to Go to the Hospital

Seek immediate care if:

• Contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour
• Your water breaks
• You experience heavy bleeding
• Baby is moving less than usual

Coping with 40 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms

You’re almost there! While the wait can be emotional and uncomfortable:

• Trust your body—it’s doing the work
• Walk or do light activity to encourage labor
• Take warm baths or showers
• Stay off your feet as much as possible
• Listen to music, read, or watch relaxing shows

More Resources and Internal Links

• ← 39 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms
• How to Induce Labor Naturally
• What to Expect During Labor and Delivery
• Hospital Bag Checklist
• Postpartum Recovery: What to Know

You’re About to Begin a New Chapter

Though 40 weeks pregnant symptoms can be exhausting and even confusing, your baby is closer than ever. Keep monitoring your symptoms, stay calm, and be prepared. The next time you visit the hospital might be the beginning of your greatest adventure.

“The wait is nearly over. Every ache, every moment of discomfort—it all leads to the most beautiful reward.”