Pregnancy Week By Week

What to Expect in Week 39 of Your Pregnancy

Thirty-Ninth Week of Pregnancy: Week by Week

Third Trimester27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40

As soon as a mother reaches 39th week her pregnancy is known as full term. It means that a baby is ready to arrive in this world at any time. They are fully grown and have very less chance of developing any complications.

IN THIS ARTICLE

Hows my Baby at 39 Weeks

Following developments can be noticed in a baby at 39 weeks pregnancy:-

  • Brain of a baby is still at a developing stage and it has become 30% bigger compared to a month ago. This development continues till a baby is three years old
  • Layer of fat underneath a baby is still growing but it is in final stage of growth. Thick deposit of fats on blood vessels gives a chubby and smooth appearance to a baby and at this time his skin starts turning to whitish in color. New cells in skin start forming as older skin is being replaced by one under it.
  • Endocrine system starts preparing for birth by releasing extra stress hormones. These hormones are vital as they help a baby to manage its internal-organ functions after birth.
  • Lungs, nervous system and brain continue to grow and develop. In 38th week of pregnancy lungs were producing surfactant and in 39th week they continue doing so to make sure that air sacs in baby are not sticking together after his birth.
  • Nutrients and antibodies are supplied by placenta to an unborn child to fight against infections and disease after birth. He continues to receive more antibodies after breastfeeding
  • At 39th week a baby is 50.8 cm or 20 inches long and he weighs around 3.29 kg or 7.25 pounds.
  • During this week baby’s head becomes engaged in pelvis and he is ready for delivery
  • In cases, where a baby is in breech or transverse position and an ECV has failed to turn its birth position, doctors may advise C-Section in this week for delivery of a baby.
  • AS a baby reaches his average weight, he either stops or slows down weight-gain.

Recommended Link: 37 Weeks Pregnant Symptoms, Baby Weight, Ultrasound: What to Expect

Pregnancy Symptoms at 39 Weeks

Following symptoms are generally noticed in pregnancy at 39 week:-

  • Breasts leaking colostrums
  • Frequent urination
  • Mood swings leading to depression
  • Constipation
  • Frequency in bowel movement
  • Varicose veins
  • Stretch marks
  • Itchy skin
  • Tiredness
  • Sore throat
  • Headache
  • Joint pain
  • Back pain
  • Insomnia
  • Swelling
  • Leg cramps
  • Pelvic pain

39 Weeks Pregnant Signs of Labor

Following are signs of labor during 39th week of pregnancy:-

  • At least 5 or more than five contractions every hour, lasting for 30-70 seconds. These contractions do not fade away even if position is changed
  • Any change in vaginal discharge
  • Spotting or bleeding
  • Nausea (Morning Sickness)
  • Diarrhea
  • Throbbing pain in lower back
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Watery discharge
  • Losing mucus-plug

Your Ultrasound 39 Weeks Pregnant

A regular Ultrasound scan performed in pregnancy at 39 weeks shows a baby with chubby cheeks and fuzzy hair. He looks exactly same like he would look after birth.

Disclaimer

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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Stephanie McClane About Author

Stephanie McClane is a mother of three and enjoys sharing the knowledge she gathered throughout her pregnancies. After approaching her last two pregnancies from a more holistic prespective and having two natural births, she was inspired to share her experiences with other moms-to-be.

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