Pregnancy at 40 weeks - Signs of True Labor Pain
Pregnancy at 40 weeks - Symptoms, Ultrasound, Baby Development, Baby Size, Childbirth and Signs of Labor
If you are 40 weeks pregnant it means you are in the 9th month of your pregnancy. Your placenta is still providing the antibodies which your baby will need to fight against the infections for the first six months of his/her life. Breastfeeding is the best way to boost the baby's immune system because your milk contains many antibodies especially colostrum (It is a thin precursor to breast milk which is very rich in antibodies which feeds your baby for the first few days of postpartum).
40 weeks pregnant symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of 40 weeks pregnant are described below :
Braxton Hicks Contractions at 40 weeks pregnant
Braxton Hicks Contractions are irregular and infrequent uncomfortable painless tightening which begins at the top of the uterine muscles and spread downwards. It causes the abdomen to become very hard. They usually last for some seconds and subsides when you change your position. These contractions become more frequent and intense when you get closer to your estimated due date. Braxton Hicks contractions are the irregular practice contractions that may begin at any time after 20 weeks of your pregnancy during the second trimester but these are more noticeable in the third trimester of your pregnancy. If you feel your uterus is tightening up it means your body is gearing up for labor and delivery.Leg cramps at 40 weeks pregnant
Leg cramps generally start in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. As your body is carrying extra weight due to pregnancy which makes leg muscles tired and many women experience leg cramping during their pregnancy. Leg cramps are very common symptoms of pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. These leg cramps may cause sharp pain that lasts up for several minutes. Prop your legs up on a pillow while resting or sleeping. Also, do some of the foot exercises daily.
(Also read: Constipation During Pregnancy)
Pelvic Pain at 40 weeks pregnant
Most of the pregnant women feel pelvic pain especially in the last trimester of their pregnancy. Pelvic Pain is more noticeable when your baby drops into the pelvic area in the preparation for delivery which usually happens two to four weeks before delivery. Some women experience pelvic pain when they're in the early phases of labor.Swollen feet and hands at 40 weeks pregnant
Swelling in feet and hands or in the face is very common during the third trimester of pregnancy especially in the last days of pregnancy. Prop your feet up and do some stretches (Point your toes down and then release them upwards) to get some relief.Anxiety or Fatigue at 40 weeks pregnant
Pregnancy is exciting as well as an emotional experience for a pregnant woman. Anxiety is a very common symptom during pregnancy. Some women also develop a fear of having childbirth because of which they feel more anxious. Don't worry and be confident. If you feel anxious most of the time then talk to your doctor or midwife and clear all your doubts about the labor and delivery process. Many pregnant women experience fatigue just before they go to labor.
(Also read: Eating Cauliflower During Pregnancy)
Trouble Sleeping at 40 weeks pregnant
Sleeping at this stage of your pregnancy may not be easy for you but try to sleep on your side though to avoid the risk of stillbirth. Sleeping on your back causes bumps to put pressure on the major vein which can affect blood flow to your baby and can make you feel light-headed. Sleeping on your side is better and more comfortable. You can also use pillows to support your bump while sleeping on your side.Most of the women have trouble sleeping during the late stage of pregnancy. It is a very common symptom of late-stage pregnancy which wouldn't harm your baby. If you're not sleeping properly in the night then take some naps during the day.
Cervical Ripening at 40 weeks pregnant
When the baby's weight pushes downwards then the cervix starts to ripen and become favorable for labor. As the cervix ripens it becomes thinner which is known as Effacing and the opening gets wider which is known as Dilation. Some women effaced and dilated a few days before their due date.Signs of labor at 40 weeks
Your body starts preparing for labor almost a month ago before you give birth. Here are some of the most common signs of labor at 40 weeks :Strong and Regular Labor Contractions
Labor contractions are more frequent, regular and stronger than Braxton Hicks Contractions as they cause your cervix to dilate at the late stage of your pregnancy. If your contractions become increasingly intense then its a sign of labor.
(Also read: 12 bad habits to avoid during pregnancy)
Water Breaking
When the fluid-filled amniotic sac which surrounds your baby through the pregnancy ruptures and fluid starts leaking from your vagina then this is the signal to call your doctor or head for the hospital. Water Breaking is one of the most obvious signs of pregnancy which is experienced by 10 to 15% of women before labor.Baby at 40 weeks pregnant
Your baby is now the size of watermelon or pumpkin. Your baby weighs around seven to nine pounds and measures around 19 to 22 inches from crown to heel.40 weeks pregnant ultrasound
When you reached 40 weeks of your pregnancy you'll have a 40 weeks ultrasound to check what the amniotic fluid level looks like or you may have a non-stress test to monitor your baby's movements and your contractions to see how your baby's heart rate reacts. If everything is fine then you have to wait a little more to hold your baby in your arms.I hope you like this post and get some valuable information. Here's wishing you a very Happy Due Date and best wishes to you for a happy delivery. Be strong and confident. Wishing you and your family all the very best and congratulations in advance.
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Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and it should not be used as the basis of patient treatment. The given content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or any diagnosis. Always consult a doctor for more information. Our website doesn't claim responsibility for this information.
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