39 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Size, Symptoms and UK Milestones
At 39 weeks pregnant, use this UK guide to understand baby size, common symptoms, likely NHS timing, and the practical dates to keep on your radar.
39 weeks pregnant at a glance
- You are in the third trimester.
- Your baby is roughly the size of a small watermelon.
- Midwife appointment.
- Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.
You are 39 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a small watermelon. This week's key development: Any Day Now. NHS note: Midwife appointment.
This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team.
If you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy, speak to your midwife, GP, or maternity team. For urgent help, use NHS 111; call 999 in an emergency. Read how we source and review content in our editorial policy.
Baby's Development
Your baby is about the size of a small watermelon.
Any Day Now — Your baby is full term. They're well-cushioned with fat, their skull bones are in place, and they're in the best possible position for birth. Braxton Hicks contractions may be more frequent. Rest, nest, and trust your body — it knows exactly what to do.
Your Symptoms
- Strong Braxton Hicks
- Backache
- Pressure in your pelvis
Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.
NHS Appointments
Midwife appointment. They may offer a membrane sweep if you're interested.
Practical Advice for Week 39
Nutrition
- Continue vitamin D and eat well.
- Keep snacks accessible — you'll want energy when early labour starts.
- Isotonic drinks (like Lucozade Sport) are good to sip during labour.
- Eat normally until contractions become strong and close together.
Exercise
- Walking can help encourage labour — listen to your body.
- Birth ball exercises keep the pelvis mobile.
- Rest between walks — conserve energy.
- Pelvic floor exercises — yes, still!
Wellbeing
- Strong Braxton Hicks can feel like early labour — time them.
- Real contractions get longer, stronger, and closer together.
- Back pain may increase — a warm bath or shower can help.
- Trust your body — it has grown this baby and it knows how to birth them.
Preparation
- Your midwife may offer a membrane sweep to encourage labour.
- Keep a log of contractions if they start — there are free apps for this.
- Your birth partner should be on immediate standby.
- Check your hospital bag one final time — baby's clothes, nappies, car seat.
Tip of the Week
Keep a log of your contractions if they start to feel regular and stronger.
Frequently Asked Questions for Week 39
How many months is 39 weeks pregnant?
What size is the baby at 39 weeks?
What are the common symptoms at 39 weeks pregnant?
Is 39 weeks in the third trimester?
Are there any NHS appointments at 39 weeks?
Tools & Calculators
Sources and further reading
Checked for UK week 39 pregnancy information guidance in July 2026.
- NHS Pregnancy Guidance
- NHS: Ultrasound scans in pregnancy
- NHS Start for Life: Pregnancy
- RCOG patient information
We prioritise official NHS and GOV.UK guidance, then relevant professional-body information where needed.
Source links are checked on the review date shown above. Your midwife, GP, maternity team, fertility clinic, or employer can give advice that is more specific to your circumstances.
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