Week 40 Pregnancy
You are 40 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a small pumpkin. This week's key development: Your Due Date. NHS note: Due date midwife appointment.
Baby's Development
Your baby is about the size of a small pumpkin.
Your Due Date — Congratulations — you've reached your estimated due date. Only around 5% of babies arrive on their exact due date, so don't be disheartened if yours doesn't. Your baby is beautifully ready. Your body is ready. Take things one hour at a time and trust the process.
Your Symptoms
- Anticipation
- Physical heaviness
- Possible early labour signs
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
Due date midwife appointment. Discussion of induction and further sweeps.
Practical Advice for Week 40
Nutrition
- Continue eating balanced meals and staying hydrated.
- Dates, raspberry leaf tea, and spicy food are all popular 'natural induction' methods — evidence varies.
- Keep snacks in your hospital bag for labour.
- Stay hydrated — dehydration can slow labour.
Exercise
- Walking may help start labour naturally.
- Birth ball bouncing and hip circles keep you mobile.
- Rest as much as you exercise — you need energy reserves.
- Gentle swimming is still fine if you feel up to it.
Wellbeing
- Only 5% of babies arrive on their due date — don't worry if yours doesn't.
- If people are asking 'Is the baby here yet?' — mute your phone if you need to.
- Focus on the fact that every hour your baby stays inside is another hour of development.
- You have done something extraordinary — growing a whole human being.
Preparation
- Due date midwife appointment — discussion of induction options and further sweeps.
- Know that NHS guidelines typically offer induction at 41–42 weeks.
- Keep your phone charged and your partner close.
- Your baby will come when they're ready — trust the process.
Tip of the Week
Don't focus too much on the date. Your baby will come when they are ready.
Track Your Due Date
Keep track of your pregnancy milestones, NHS scans, and countdown to your due date.
Go to TrackerNHS Resources
Find trusted information on financial support, antenatal classes, and local maternity services.
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