Week 40: Due Date Week

The Wait Is Almost Over

Week 40 is the technical due date, but only about 5% of babies arrive exactly on their due date. Most first-time moms deliver between 39-41 weeks. If baby has not arrived yet, patience is key.

Baby Is Ready

At full term, your baby:

• Weighs 7-8 pounds on average
• Is about 20 inches long
• Has fully developed lungs and organs
• Has limited room to move, you will feel rolls more than kicks

Signs Labor Is Coming

Watch for:

• Bloody show - Mucus tinged with blood
• Water breaking - A gush or slow leak of fluid
• Regular contractions - Getting longer, stronger, closer together
• Nesting instinct - Sudden urge to clean and organize

If Baby Is Late

Going past the due date is common and usually not concerning. However:

• Your provider will likely schedule more frequent monitoring
• Induction is typically discussed around 41-42 weeks
• Trust your medical team guidance

How Dads Can Help

• Be patient - Do not constantly ask any signs yet?
• Distract her - Movies, walks, favorite foods
• Handle the is baby here yet texts - Be her buffer
• Stay ready - Bags packed, car gassed, phone charged
• Rest while you can - Sleep now, because soon you will not

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your provider immediately for:

• Decreased baby movement
• Heavy bleeding
• Severe headache or vision changes
• Contractions before 37 weeks

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