42 Weeks Pregnant: Baby Size, Symptoms and UK Milestones
At 42 weeks pregnant, use this UK guide to understand baby size, common symptoms, likely NHS timing, and the practical dates to keep on your radar.
42 weeks pregnant at a glance
- You are in the third trimester.
- Your baby is roughly the size of ready to meet you.
- Induction of labour is usually scheduled for this week if it hasn't happened naturally.
- Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.
You are 42 weeks pregnant. This week's key development: The Very Last Chapter. NHS note: Induction of labour is usually scheduled for this week if it hasn't happened naturally.
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 ready to meet you.
The Very Last Chapter — Most care providers will discuss induction options by now if labour hasn't begun naturally. Your baby is ready, you are ready, and this story is about to reach its most extraordinary moment. However your birth unfolds, it will be the beginning of the most remarkable chapter of your life.
Your Symptoms
- Extreme readiness
- Physical discomfort
- Emotional intensity
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
Induction of labour is usually scheduled for this week if it hasn't happened naturally.
Practical Advice for Week 42
Nutrition
- Continue eating well and staying hydrated.
- Keep hospital bag snacks fresh and topped up.
- Eat foods that give you energy — you'll need it very soon.
- Stay hydrated — sip water, herbal tea, or isotonic drinks.
Exercise
- Gentle walking is still fine and may encourage labour.
- Rest as much as possible — you're about to run a marathon.
- Birth ball exercises can ease discomfort.
- Breathing and relaxation practice — use them as labour begins.
Wellbeing
- You've grown a human being for 42 weeks — you are extraordinary.
- Emotional intensity is natural — excitement, fear, impatience are all valid.
- However your birth unfolds, it is yours and it matters.
- This is the beginning of the most remarkable chapter of your life.
Preparation
- Induction of labour is usually offered this week if it hasn't started naturally.
- Your midwife will explain exactly what induction involves — you can ask questions.
- Make sure your birth partner is with you or immediately contactable.
- Everything is ready — you've done an incredible job preparing. Now it's time.
Tip of the Week
You've done it! You've grown a human for 42 weeks. You are amazing.
Frequently Asked Questions for Week 42
How many months is 42 weeks pregnant?
What size is the baby at 42 weeks?
What are the common symptoms at 42 weeks pregnant?
Is 42 weeks in the third trimester?
Are there any NHS appointments at 42 weeks?
Tools & Calculators
Sources and further reading
Checked for UK week 42 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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