40 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 40

Week 40 and beyond – time to get things moving!

Your baby in week 40

Once you are at week 40, your baby is more than ready to be delivered, and you are no doubt more than ready to meet them! They’re likely to be around 50cm now and weighing between 6 and 8lbs which is a healthy weight.

Your baby’s vision at birth will have developed enough to see around 2.5cm so they won’t be able to see much of your face at birth, they will however be able to recognise the sound of your voice and your partner’s if you’ve been talking to them over the last few weeks of pregnancy.

If your due date has passed, your midwife will be keeping a close eye on you both, and in some cases may offer you an ultrasound scan to check on the well-being of your baby and your placenta (which could start to deteriorate if you go too overdue).

You midwife will also be regularly monitoring your unborn baby's movement and heartbeat, and will suggest an induction if there are any concerns.

You at 40 weeks pregnant

Your midwife will be keen to get things moving by the time you pass week 40 to prevent any potential problems. If your due date has come and gone, she will be discussing your options with you. She will most probably initially suggest doing a 'sweep' for you, where she uses her fingers to give you an internal examination and sweep around your cervix to try and loosen the membranes. This will (hopefully) release prostaglandins, which are the hormones which will get your labour started.
If this does not work, she will set a date for you to be induced in hospital – have a read of our overdue babies page for all the information you need on the various methods of induction.

What to think about in week 40

What else could there be to think about this week other than cuddling up with your new baby, and doing all those other magical 'firsts' now you are a mum? You and your newborn have been on quite a journey over the past 40 weeks, and this is only the beginning!
Make the most of every precious moment, and enjoy those wonderful 'getting to know you' days with your baby son or daughter! You never know, you might love it so much you'll want to do it all over again in a couple of years!
Care to share? Talk to other overdue mums-to-be in our forums to see how they are coping too.

39 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

 

What's happening in week 39

Week 39 and both you and your unborn baby are playing the waiting game!

Your baby in week 39

Like you, your baby is just waiting for the signal to go now, and is ready to make their début! Fully grown at close to 50cm and weighing 7 to 8lbs, they’re head down and waiting for those first lovely moments of skin to skin contact and that first feed with mum!
If they haven’t already, they’ll be shedding the Vernix Caseosa which will be mixing into the remaining amniotic fluid, which is likely to be swallowed by the baby.
How odd that any day now they will go from being tucked up in your tummy to being properly in your life? And what an amazing journey they (and you!) have been on since week one!

You at 39 weeks pregnant

If you have been stuffing yourself with pineapple and curry, drinking your raspberry leaf tea and even doing some gentle walking (or having sex) to try and get things started, you might be getting a little bit tired of waiting for your baby to arrive now!
Try to enjoy these last few days as a couple with your partner, and try not to worry too much about just when your waters are going to break, or when your labour is going to start – one way or another, your baby is going to be here in the next week or so!
Your midwife has no doubt given you some advice about induction now, and what your options will be if your pregnancy goes beyond 40 weeks – but fingers crossed, now, as you hit the thirty nine week stage, it is going to kick off very soon!

What to think about in week 39

You might be finding it hard to think about - or concentrate - on anything much beyond your impending arrival now! As every little twinge, feeling of dampness, pain or movement will have you wondering 'is this it?'!
Most women get plenty of warnings that things are about to start (a show, waters breaking, hours of mild contractions), and first babies often like to keep you on your toes with plenty of false starts and trips to the hospital only to be sent back home again! But rest assured, you are going to have your newborn son or daughter in your arms very, very soon now, and that is really all you need to be thinking about!
Care to share? Talk to other mums who are 39 weeks too in the Bounty Community.

 

38 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 38

By week thirty eight you might be ready to serve an eviction notice on your little one!

Your baby at 38 weeks

Your baby is completely ready to be born now, and is at full term. The average weight at 38 weeks is around 7lbs but of course this will vary with each baby. Developmentally and size-wise they are absolutely perfect little newborns, and the only remaining part of their pregnancy journey is meeting mum and dad!

Their organs are now all fully formed and ready for life outside their home for the past 9 months. One remaining change left to happen is the eye colour of your baby which will still be changing due to the lack of pigment. It’s common for babies to be born with blue for grey eyes but for these to turn green or brown after birth.

They are most likely very low down in your tummy now, head engaged and just waiting for the release of the hormones which will get the contractions started to push them out!

You at 38 weeks pregnant

You are no doubt impatiently ticking the days off on the calendar now, and wondering every morning if today will be the day! Try and make the most of your last few days before baby arrives by getting as much rest as you can, ready to meet your newborn. 
You might be plagued by well-wishers phoning, texting and emailing to ask if 'anything is happening' yet – very annoying but also quite nice that everyone is as excited as you to meet your new little baby!
Some mums are convinced that there are natural ways to get labour started when they get to this point in their pregnancy, from eating pineapples to having sex! If you are bored of waiting to meet your new baby son or daughter, you might want to try a few of them to see if there is any truth in the rumours!

What to think about in week 38

Have you thought about setting up a memory box for your impending arrival? Many mums like to create a little archive or keepsake of their pregnancy and the first few days of their baby's life. You could put copies of your scan pics, your maternity notes, even your positive pregnancy test in it!
Once your baby is here, you'll have their hospital ID bracelets, cord clamp, new baby cards and lots of other little 'memories' to go in, too. It's not only nice to look back on once they are a bit bigger, but also lovely to share with them when they are older!
Care to share? Talk to other mums-to-be at the 38 week mark in the Bounty Community – you'll all have your newborns in your arms soon enough!

 

37 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening this week

Week 37 and your baby is full term and ready for the off!

Your baby in week 37

Your baby now weighs close to 3kg (but will be gaining about half a pound a week) and will be around 50cm long from head to toe. They’re now considered full term and ready to meet you! Whether they do or not in the coming days is another matter entirely, and lots of first babies do stay put for a bit longer!
Your baby’s lungs are more than likely capable of adjusting to life outside the womb, and your baby now has a tummy full of meconium, which will form the contents of their very first nappy (green and sticky!).
At birth, your baby’s head is the same size as their hips, abdomen and shoulders and will change shape through the first few weeks after the birth.
They will now also be in the ‘engaged’ position, head down, and ready to go. If they are born this week, they might still have a little lanugo hair on their bodies, or patches of vernix, the waxy white substance that has protected them in the womb.
You baby’s immune system is continuing to develop this week and after birth your breast milk will continue to supply them with the necessary antibodies to stay healthy.

You at 37 weeks pregnant

Most women will go into labour between 38 and 42 weeks of pregnancy, although you will be closely monitored and induction will be discussed once you go beyond 41 weeks.
You are probably feeling quite anxious to meet your baby now, and might be feeling a bit worn out and tired of lugging your baby bump around! There really is not long left to go, so try and relax and chill out as much as possible and wait for those first early labour signs to appear. This could be your waters breaking, contractions starting, or seeing a 'show', as the bloody mucus plug that is covering your cervix comes away ready for your baby to be born. Phone your midwife for advice if you experience any of these.

What to think about in week 37

Once your baby has arrived, obviously everyone is going to want to come for a peek and a cuddle – but as many of your friends with babies will no doubt tell you, this can become quite overwhelming in the days immediately after giving birth!
Although you won't know just now exactly how you are going to feel once your baby is here, it could be a good idea to have a chat with your partner sooner rather than later about how you are going to handle the constant influx of well-wishers eager to see your new baby. Some new parents can find themselves desperate for a bit of time on their own with their newborn in those first few days, so making sure you are both agreed on a visitor strategy could save a lot of stress!
Care to share? Talk to other mums-to-be in the Bounty Community who are also at 37 weeks and eager to meet their little one.

 

36 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 36

Week 36 and the finish line is well and truly in sight!

Your baby at week 36

Your baby is really getting themselves ready to meet you now! They are moving further down your pelvis ready to engage (if they haven't already), and putting on those last few ounces of weight.
The average baby weighs around 7.5lbs at birth, so your little one has a bit more to gain just now, weighing in at around 6lbs at the 36 week mark. They’ll also measure in at close to 50cm and still have a little bit of growing left to do.
You will still be feeling them moving about, but probably much lower down in your tummy. If you notice any prolonged lack of movement, do contact your midwife straight away, so she can make sure everything is as it should be.
This week they’ll be shedding the remaining downy hair which will mix in with the remaining amniotic fluid which the baby will be swallowing with some reaching their bowel and becoming meconium, which will form their first bowel movement.
Their blood circulation and immune system are now ready for the outside world after months of development, but their digestive system isn’t quite ready and will take a few months to catch up before your baby can start eating solids.

You at 36 weeks pregnant

Your midwife will be checking your baby's position at all your appointments now, and noting whether or not their head has engaged. As baby moves further down into your pelvis, you will probably find eating and breathing a whole lot easier and your desire to swig antacid from the bottle lessened!
You might find your nesting instinct kicking in around this time, too, giving you an irrepressible desire to clean and tidy your home in readiness for your new arrival – go with it if you've got the energy – it's unlikely you'll feel quite so keen to de-clutter the under-stairs cupboard or clean the hob at any point again in the next nine months!

What to think about in week 36

Dealing with other people late in your pregnancy can end up driving you to distraction – particularly if you are finding that the constant 'not long now' or 'you look ready to pop' comments from friends and family are starting to grate!
You could also find yourself inundated with calls and texts asking if there is 'any news'. Don't feel guilty about switching your phone off or letting the voicemail pick up, particularly if you are trying to get some rest – that's more important than relaying for the umpteenth time 'no, nothing's happening yet...' .
Don't feel bad about being firm with repeat offenders either, perhaps by getting your partner to field your calls, or simply telling them straight out that you will call them when there is anything to report!
Care to share? Talk to other mums-to-be in the Bounty Community who are also at 36 weeks.

 

35 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 35

Week 35, and your baby looks just like a little newborn – and it's only a few weeks until you meet them!

Your baby at week 35

Your baby has only a few weeks left 'inside' and they are now almost ready for life outside the womb! They’ll probably weigh in at around 5.5lbs in week 35 and will be close to 50cm in length.
They will be doing lots of practise sucking movements ready to latch on for that first post-birth feed, and will be starting to move further down your pelvis ready for D-day. 
Your baby looks much the same as a newborn now, although they will get a little bit heavier before they are born. They currently have close to 15% fat on their body, but this will be closer to 30% by the time they’re born in a few weeks’ time.

You at 35 weeks pregnant

As only 5% of babies are born on their actual due date, you might already be wondering if every twitch and ache is a sign of impending labour! If your baby was to arrive now, they would still be considered  moderately premature, but would most likely be absolutely fine with a little extra care.
With just a few weeks left, now is a good time to make sure your hospital bag is good to go, that your freezer is full of lots of batch-baked meals, and the cupboards are well stocked.
It's also a good idea to have all your important phone numbers – and by that we mean for the maternity unit, GP etc – noted somewhere accessible (and not just to you!). Make sure everyone knows what they should be doing once you go into labour – this is particularly important if you have other children to arrange childcare or school run picks up and drop offs for.

What to think about  in week 35

If your baby has not yet got themselves into the optimum position for birth (head down) you could try and give them a helping hand by doing a bit of moving around yourself! Some mums swear by spending time on all fours and wriggling their hips to encourage their baby to turn, while others gently bounce on a birthing ball to help get the pelvis to open.
Scrubbing floors and sitting backwards on a seat – so your bump is towards the backrest – are also tried and tested methods for getting stubborn babies to be where they are supposed to be!

 

34 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 34

You're at week 34 and there's really not long left to go at all!

Your baby at 34 weeks

Your baby will now weigh close to 5lbs and measure up at about 45cm long. Their skin is increasingly smooth and rounded as they continue to gain weight and fill out with fat.

You are probably not feeling so many 'big' movements from your baby now, as they get themselves ready for delivery in a head down, curled up position. They will still be wriggling and kicking, but you will probably not feel it quite so much as before.

Your baby’s hearing will now be developed enough that they can hear you, so it’s a good idea to begin talking to your baby (they’re particularly receptive to high pitched tones).

Their little lungs are also now almost fully developed so they will be ready to breathe independently after birth. Their tiny finger and toenails have now grown and if your baby is overdue they’ll likely need a trim.

If you are expecting a little boy, his testicles are starting to move down into his scrotum now.

You at 34 weeks pregnant

You'll have an antenatal appointment with your midwife this week, and she will no doubt have a chat with you to make sure you are happy with your birth plan and aware of all your pain relief options in labour. She will probably also run through what to do when your waters break, or if you start having contractions.
She will also be paying particular attention to any swelling in your hands, ankles and face at this stage of pregnancy, as it could be an indicator of pre-eclampsia (although all pregnant women will endure puffy ankles to some degree). Do tell her if you have been suffering from headaches or blurred vision, too, as this can also be a sign.
If you are rhesus negative, you will have your second dose of anti-D around now, too.

What to think about in week 34

As your baby's arrival is now just weeks away, it could be worth doing one last check that you have everything you need in your hospital bag and in your nursery!
Think about back ups too – for example, if you have decided to use cloth nappies, it could be sensible to have a pack of disposables in the drawer as well, just in case.
Making up a 'mobile' basket of nappy change and top and tail supplies to keep in whatever room you are in in the house might also prove useful, too – you won't necessarily want to take your baby to their nursery changing table for every nappy change or clean up.

 

33 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 33

Week 33 and you are probably counting down the days!

Your baby at 33 weeks

Your baby is now around 3-4lbs in weight and around 44cm long, in these last few weeks it’s possible they will grow another inch and will be putting on about half a pound a week.
They might already have a head of hair, and will have perhaps shifted position and gone head down in your womb, with their little legs folded up to their chest. This engaged position readies them to move further down into your pelvis in preparation for birth!
Your baby's bones are also continuing to harden at this stage too, except for those in their skull, which stay soft and pliable to enable baby's head to be born safely.
Their immune system will now also be fully developed with the antibodies they need for the outside world being passed from you to your little one in preparation for the birth.
The levels of Amniotic fluid is now at its lowest as your baby continues to grow and take up space. With less fluid it’s likely that kicks could feel a bit sharp!

You at 33 weeks pregnant

You are probably really feeling (and looking) very pregnant now, and might have adopted the pregnant lady waddle thanks to your growing baby's position!
You might be feeling pretty exhausted quite a lot of the time, and finding you get out of puff and worn out more quickly than usual. Trying to keep as active as possible is still really encouraged though, even when you are at this late stage. Swimming is brilliant for mums-to-be as it is both a great way to relax and get a bit of exercise all while being supported by the water and feeling weightless.
You could also give yourself an energy boost with nutrient and iron rich snacks when you feel yourself flagging (much better for you than chocolate!) - and of course, get lots of rest and feet up time!

What to think about in week 33

You might be having real problems sleeping now, not only because of your mega bump, but also because of the weird dreams which can occur in late pregnancy! It can be infuriating not being able to nod off – or nodding off then waking lots in the night – but try not to stress over a lack of sleep too much. Instead, just try and make it up when you can (and don't feel guilty about it!).
An afternoon snooze on the sofa, or in the sunshine in the back garden will do you the power of good – and you really do need to make the most of every opportunity to put your feet up and rest now!

 

32 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 32

Week 32 and not long at all until your baby's due date!

Your baby at 32 weeks

Your growing baby is now around 48cm long and weighs about 4lbs. They’re so well developed and turning into such a real little person that their finger nails are even sprouting in the womb. If you go overdue, you might find they are born with long nails that will need an immediate trim!
Their skin is now soft and smooth as they continue to take on fat, gaining around half a pound per week. Their skin is a lot less transparent and more opaque as the fat continues to develop.
Your baby is enjoying periods of rest and wriggles now – and while they doze, they will be having dreams! Really! Scientists have discovered that babies dream at this stage of pregnancy and that their dream sleep patterns are much the same as adults! Can you even begin to imagine what they might dream about?
When they are awake, your baby will practicing all the skills that are necessary for the world including swallowing, breathing, kicking and sucking.
Your baby will very likely have moved into the engaged position by now, but don’t worry if not they might just be taking their time. If they don’t move, they’ll be breech (which affects less than 5% of births) and your midwife will be able to advice on options for the birth.

You at 32 weeks pregnant

You might find your belly button 'pops' as your bump gets bigger, and sticks out from your tummy by 32 weeks. It will go back to normal after your baby is born, so don't worry!
You are no doubt thinking more and more about when you might go into labour now, and what your action plan will be on the day – have you got someone to take you to the hospital if your partner is stuck somewhere? Are there contingency plans in place if your birth partner can't get to the hospital on time? Lots of things to think about and organise! Have a look at our page on writing a birth plan if you haven't already done so – there's really not long to go now!

What to think about in week 32

Even if you are now counting down the days to your maternity leave, you might be wondering just how you are going to fill your time while everyone else is at work - particularly if you know the novelty of relaxing in front of daytime TV will wear off after just a couple of days. Obviously you should be relaxing and getting as much rest as possible pre-baby, but gentle exercise and keeping active is still really important.
Once you go on leave, why not meet up with working pals for a lunchtime swim a couple of times a week to keep boredom at bay and take the weight off your bump?

 

31 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 31

Week thirty one and your baby is just weeks away from being in your arms!

Your baby at week 31

At week 31 the average baby will be around 40cm long, likely weighing close to 3lbs and although they will not get much longer at this stage, but they will continue to put on weight each week.

Their arms, legs and body are now in proportion with their head and their organs are continuing to develop including the bladder which will now be passing water through it. Their bone marrow is now doing the all important job of producing red blood cells, up until this point their liver had performed this job.
They will also know when it is light and dark now, but still won't necessarily keep to a day or night time sleeping or moving about regime! With only a few weeks to go you have probably started to notice your baby has now settled in to a regular pattern of movement. If you notice any change in your baby's movements call your midwife.

You at 31 weeks pregnant

You might be getting Braxton Hicks contractions now, and be feeling regular tightening in your tummy. Braxton Hicks are sometimes called practice contractions, but they should not be painful.
You might also be feeling more tired now as your due date is well and truly in sight, so it is important to get as much rest as and when you can, particularly if you are having trouble sleeping at night.
You might be experiencing more heartburn now, too, as your growing baby puts extra pressure on your tummy - your midwife might suggest an antacid if you are finding it too uncomfortable. In fact, you might find your whole digestion system is a bit out of kilter in late pregnancy - again, speak to your midwife if your symptoms are bothering you. Some, like constipation and wind can be easily remedied through diet.

What to think about in week 31

If you have other children, they are no doubt on the countdown now for the arrival of their new brother or sister, and will have been well prepped about what having a new sibling will entail – but what about other children in your family?
If this is your first baby but you are already an aunty, your nieces and nephews might be used to having you to themselves, and potentially not having to share their grandparents with other children, either. Take some time to reassure the other little one's already in your life about what an exciting thing your new arrival is going to be for the whole family!

 

30 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 30

Week thirty and the countdown begins. Your baby will be here very soon!

Your baby at week 30

Your baby is fully developed, but there is still some fine tuning going on as the final pieces of the intricate baby-making jigsaw are put in place!
Your baby will measure around 39cm in length now, weighing around 3lbs and is continuing to put on weight. Should you go into premature labour, your baby would be taken to a special care baby unit, but they would have an extremely good chance of survival.
Their little lungs are not quite mature enough to support them in the outside world at this stage, and their brain is changing appearance wise, taking on the grooves and ridges that make it look the same as an adults'. These wrinkles will increase to provide more space for brain tissue to grow and develop.
The Lanugo hair will start to disappear as the new brain cells and fat help to regulate the body temperature for the remaining weeks in the womb. Their bone marrow is also starting to produce red blood cells ready for development and growth after birth.
Your baby’s digestive tract is now almost fully developed and will soon be ready for mouth feeding after birth.
It’s likely that if they aren’t already your baby will begin to move head downward and into the ‘engaged’ position. There’s around a litre of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, but this will decrease as they continue to grow into the final weeks.

You at 30 weeks pregnant

The big question for this week is have you packed your hospital bag? Now's the time to start thinking about getting organised for when you go into labour. Getting all the bits and pieces you need for your bag now will save you having to endure the shops in the last few weeks of pregnancy (which are reserved for feet-up style relaxing before 18 years of mummy-hood begins!).
Your hospital bag needs to contain all the things you will need for the duration of your stay, so the items you might want in labour, such as lip balm, a comfy over sized t-shirt, your TENS machine and clothes and toiletries for after the birth. You'll also need to pack for your baby too, and choose what little outfit you want to dress them in after delivery, and their going home clothes! One of the best bits of pre-baby prep!

What to think about in week 30

With the end nearly in sight, it could be nice to start planning a few little treats just for yourself before your baby is born.
Getting your hair cut so it's in a nice easy to maintain style, or going for a pedicure (unless you are one of the lucky ones who can still reach her own toes!) could be nice ways to grab a bit of 'me time' before baby arrives. Or you could just have some girlfriends over for some pampering and get them to sort your tootsies out!
Some spas offer specific packages for mums-to-be if you are after the ultimate in indulgence – particularly lovely if someone has offered to treat you!

 

29 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 29

Week 29 and your baby will double in size between now and birth!

Your baby at week 29

At week 29 the average baby measures around 39cm and might weigh close to 2lbs but this will vary from baby to baby. Their skin is smoothing out as they continue to put on fat which is now for energy rather than temperature regulation.

The Vernix Caseosa (the waxy white substance which has been protecting it from the effects of the amniotic fluid) is beginning to disappear, as is the soft downy hair (lanugo) which has covered its body (although you might still see traces of both at birth).

Your baby's eyes are starting to focus now, too – just imagine how their little world currently appears to them!

Amazingly the buds in their gums for their baby teeth have already formed, and they’re now beginning to develop buds ready for the permanent to teeth.

If you’re having a boy, their testicles will have now descended from near their kidneys through the groin and into the scrotum.

You at 29 weeks pregnant

If you haven't already decided who is going to be your birth partner, or should you need a 'back up' partner if your baby's dad could be delayed getting to the hospital, now could be the time to give it some serious thought! Your birth partner will offer you moral and practical support during labour, and speak to medical staff on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
If your partner cannot be at the birth for whatever reason, or you have both decided he won't be (which is a totally personal preference – some men might not wish to be present, and some mums might not want them to be) you might ask your mum, sister, or a close friend to be there instead, but the decision is yours. Whoever you choose, make sure they are aware of your wishes, and have seen – and ideally have a copy of – your birth plan.

What to think about in week 29

You might be on the countdown to your maternity leave now, or perhaps you are planning to carry on in a 'business as normal' fashion at the office for as long as possible. Some mums-to-be like to work right up until the last minute so they can use as much as their maternity leave as possible after their baby is born.
Of course, what you do for a living will have a bearing on this, and how long you can stay at work for, but regardless of when you decide to finish up, do take those last few weeks easy – don't try and be superwoman! Have a look at our maternity rights pages for info on statutory maternity leave and paternity leave.

 

28 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 28

Week 28 and your baby is continuing to put on weight, wriggle around, and enjoy snoozing!

Your baby at week 28

Your baby weighs around 2.5lbs now, is around 38cm long and is perfectly formed.

Its little heartbeat is so strong that your partner might be able to hear it if they put their ear on your bump! Baby's heart beat can also be picked up by a doctor's stethoscope now, and not just the Doppler which your midwife uses to listen with at your antenatal appointments.

Your baby can now blink their eyes, and their eyesight has developed to the point where they will be able to see your face when breastfeeding!

Their brains is also continuing its development ready for the outside world and the thalamocortical complex begins to be active. This is the part of the brain thought to be responsible for consciousness and is an important part of the brains development!

Your baby is continuing to pad out, and is gaining weight quickly, and although they look like a perfect little baby already, they will put on quite a few more pounds before birth.

You at 28 weeks pregnant

You are no doubt thinking more and more about your baby's birth now – maybe even having dreams about it! It is entirely normal to have fears and worries about how you'll cope in labour, but all your friends who are already mums will be able to reassure you that you just WILL! Chatting to your pals who already have a baby could be really useful in these last months and help you make informed choices about the kind of birth you hope to have.
Your midwife will also be happy to talk to you about all your options, so make the most of your antenatal appointments to get as much information as you can about what your hospital offers on their maternity unit, and what you would need to source yourself should you wish to use it (such as a birthing ball, or a TENS unit) during labour.

What to think about in week 28

Have you thought about how you might record your labour and birth? Will you want your birth partner to take any photos, or even video your baby's arrival? Have you got your camera and spare batteries listed on your hospital bag packing list? Don't rely on your phone camera for those first images – it might run out of charge or the quality might be too poor to turn into lovely printable photos.
Ask your first visitors to take lots of snaps too – you might be too wrapped up gazing adoringly at your perfect little bundle in those first precious hours to remember to photograph them!

 

27 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 27

At twenty seven weeks your baby is well and truly getting ready for 'D-day'!

Your baby at 27 weeks

At week 27, your baby is 36cm long, weighing 875g and about the size of a head of cauliflower. Your baby might start to open their eyes around the 27 week mark, and begin to distinguish between night and day. Their little hiccups in the womb might radiate through your tummy, meaning you feel all their little burbs and shudders!

If you went into premature labour now, your baby would be cared for in a special care baby unit, and would have a very good chance of survival. Their lungs are still developing, but would function with some medical assistance.

Your baby's brain is now also going through its final stages of fine tuning with some last minute fast and furious development.

Along with their developed brain, your baby now has very developed taste buds. If you eat spicy food it’s possible it’ll make your baby hiccup, but don’t worry they’ll pass fairly quickly.

You at 27 weeks pregnant

You are now in your third and final trimester and on the home strait! How exciting!
You might experience some new pregnancy 'symptoms' as your body starts to prepare itself for D day and your baby's arrival. 
Your appetite will probably increase quite a bit in these last few months, as your body uses up more energy. Eat healthy, and try and keep as active as possible.
You might want to try some breathing exercises or pregnancy yoga to keep you strong as supple in readiness for the big day. Check out our health and fitness in pregnancy pages for some ideas.
Some of the more embarrassing pregnancy side effects could be affecting you now, too -  piles, wind and even leaky boobs! None will cause you any long term problems and are just all part of the fun of motherhood!

What to think about in week 27

You might be starting to think more and more about the actual birth of your baby now, and what the delivery might be like. Have you decided who your birth partner is going to be, and written up your birth plan? Does everyone know what your wishes are in labour and what kind of birth you would like?
Having a chat with your friends who've recently had babies will be really helpful at this stage – even if they do have what they might call 'horror stories' you can get some honest, reassuring advice – and of course, some practice cuddles with their babies!

 

26 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 26

At 26 weeks your baby is starting to practice using their little lungs all ready for D day!

Your baby at 26 weeks

Your baby has grown a lot in the past few months, weighing around 2lbs, and is approximately 35.5cm long – can you believe how quickly time has gone?
If they were born early, they would now have a very good chance of survival with specialist care.
Your baby will start to practice making breathing movements at 26 weeks, breathing in the surrounding amniotic fluid, all ready for when they take their first gasps of air after delivery!

Their eyes will also start to open at 26 weeks, although their vision will still be underdeveloped but this will change over the coming weeks.

It’s possible with the increased brain activity your baby will respond to certain noises with increased activity or even increased pulse rate.

If you’re having a boy their testicles are beginning to descend into the Scrotum (a process that takes 2/3 months to complete).

You at 26 weeks pregnant

You are probably feeling your baby move in different ways now as the space in your tummy is getting more and more crowded! Those somersaults and twists and turns are more likely to be solid kicks, and you might frequently see a foot or elbow shape poking out!
You can probably anticipate the times when your baby is going to be active or quiet by now, but do flag up with your midwife or GP if you are concerned you have not felt your baby move for a while.
As your bump continues to grow, you might find yourself getting a bit hot and bothered, and your skin starting to itch or dry out – or it could go the other way entirely and give you a lovely crop of hormonal spots! Treat it gently, and don't use harsh chemical products to deal with any breakouts. Loose clothes, lots of cool drinks and keeping a cooling spray in your handbag should help you get through any hot flushes or sweaty periods!
If you have a special event coming up, make sure you dress-(your bump)-to-impress without breaking the budget.

What to think about in week 26

If you are keeping to a strict baby budget, then buying second-hand is a fab way to save loads of money – particularly as most baby equipment gets so little use. There are loads of places to find bargains too – eBay, Gumtree, NCT sales, car boot fairs, and even for free on sites like Freecycle, or from generous friends whose babies have outgrown their newborn equipment.
Do make sure you clean everything with an anti-bacterial cleanser though, and check that any equipment has the appropriate British safety standard labelling – and if you buy a pre-loved cot or Moses basket, always replace the mattress.

 

25 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 25

At twenty five weeks your baby is establishing a play and nap routine and recognising your voice!

Your baby at week 25

At twenty five weeks into your pregnancy, your baby has its own little routine going on in your womb! They will play (turning somersaults, wriggling around!) and then have a little nap to recover! They will also enjoy hearing your voice at this stage, and may move around in response to it.
They might get excited by other noises too, and you may well feel them having a bit of a boogie to certain sounds – could be as mundane as the Hoover or car engine, but music might get them into the groove, too! Talking and singing to your baby is as important as ever at this stage in your pregnancy, and you might even want to read to them, as well.

You at 25 weeks pregnant

You'll have an antenatal appointment at 25 weeks, and your midwife might talk through your birth plan, or your thoughts about the type of delivery you would like.  If you haven't yet written up your birth plan and put a copy of it in your maternity notes folder, now could be the time to do it. Make sure you birth partner has a copy too, and is aware of the kind of birth you wish to aim for, and your thoughts on pain relief and positions to deliver in. You might be given a test for gestational diabetes at this point in pregnancy, if you have gained weight rapidly, or if your urine or blood sample has flagged up cause for concern. Have a look at our pages on healthy eating and diet in pregnancy, and gestational diabetes to get more info on this.

What to think about in week 25

One of the first pieces of equipment you are going to need for your baby is a car seat so you can bring them home from hospital. It's a good idea to get this sorted as early as you can, so you feel confident about fitting it in your car, and getting it in and out – you could even have a practice of securing the harness with your fave teddy! Most stores will offer you lots of advice and make sure you have chosen the right seat for your car, and one that is suitable for a newborn.
Many establishments will also have a fitting service, and will make sure you are completely up to speed with the correct position and attachment of your seat before you take it away.

 

24 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 24

You are 24 weeks into your pregnancy and your baby is now considered viable.

Your baby at 24 weeks

Your baby will now be around a foot long, and the size of an ear of corn. They weigh around 600g and will be gaining more every week.  At 24 weeks into your pregnancy, your baby would be considered viable and with a chance of survival if they were born prematurely. Have a look at our pages on premature birth for more information about early babies.
Even though your baby is mainly just laying down flat now, and growing a bit longer, there are some subtle changes also taking place within their body. Their little lungs are now maturing so they can breathe actual air rather than fluid, and the organs in their ears are starting to further develop so they can properly work out sounds – mainly your heartbeat and voice!
Their face will now be fully formed with eyelashes, eyebrows and hair. This will still be white due to lack of pigment, but will start to change colour soon.

You at 24 weeks pregnant

Your growing bump might continue to take you by surprise at this stage of pregnancy, and could occasionally leave you feeling a bit unsteady on your feet as your centre of gravity shifts! Take care as you get up and down from your chair or out of bed – try to avoid standing suddenly and getting that rush of blood to the head feeling.
Some women will experience some dental problems at this point in pregnancy, such as bleeding gums or sensitivity – make the most of your free dental care and have a check up to make sure all is well with your gnashers – there is no truth in the old wives' tale that you lose a tooth for every baby – if you take care of your pearly whites (lots of brushing, flossing and mouth wash!) they will withstand your pregnancy perfectly well!

What to think about in week 24

If you are starting to think about decorating your baby's nursery, it's very easy to be totally seduced by all the gorgeous nursery furniture and matching accessories – and they are beautiful if your budget and space allows, but do not agonise over your little one's room if you can't stretch to a complete make over.
Your baby will really need very little to start with – a cot or Moses basket, a sturdy changing table and mat, and of course, clothes and a travel system.
Remember you have got an awful lot of time ahead of you to make their little space perfect and it will be constantly evolving as they grow, so don't put yourself under too much pressure to splash the cash or go DIY crazy!

 

23 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 23

At 23 weeks your baby looks much like a newborn – just a little bit skinnier!

Your baby at week 23

Your baby is close to 30cm long, weighing around 500g and has the proportions of a new-born now, although not as much fat, so they still have some bulking out to do, but there is plenty of time left for them to do that.
Their eyes are now fully formed, although they don't have any colour just yet. There is probably still just enough space for your baby to be turning somersaults – although probably not for much longer. It’s also possible that you might be able to see your baby moving under your clothes if they decide to be particularly active!
Your baby’s lungs are continuing to develop getting ready for them to practice breathing in the womb, and also for their first breaths after birth. Their skin is still translucent and their bones and organs are visible through their skin.
It’s possible that loud noises will now be more familiar and less likely to make your baby jump. It’s often claimed that babies prefer soothing classical music, so feel free to introduce them to some Bach early on!

You at 23 weeks pregnant

You might find your weight is steadily increasing now, so eating healthily and filling up on fibre-rich, nutritious food which will help you feel fuller for longer is even more important – particularly if you are suffering from hunger pangs between meals.
In the last three months of pregnancy, mums-to-be generally need an extra two hundred calories, but it is best to get them from nutritious food stuffs rather than sugary snacks! (not that treats aren't allowed of course). See our diet and health in pregnancy pages for more info on nutrition.
Your growing bump might also be putting more strain on your back now, and backache could start to set in. Keep an eye on your posture, and make sure your chair is properly adjusted if you are sitting at a desk all day. Taking regular breaks to stretch your legs, and move around will help, too, as will putting your feet up and taking the weight off them as often as you can!

What to think about in week 23

Some mums find they go up a shoe size in pregnancy – this is most usually down to feet widening rather than actually growing in length though! As your feet are obviously bearing all your weight, it is really important to wear good quality, supportive footwear – particularly if you are suffering with the dreaded puffy ankles, or tired aching feet.
High heels are best left just for very special occasions at this point (despite the pregnant celeb trend for teetering footwear practically to the delivery room!) – and not just for comfort reasons – as your centre of gravity shifts, your balance could be affected and you most definitely do not want to be taking a tumble!

 

22 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 22

At twenty-two weeks, your baby is constantly making their presence felt!

Your baby at 22 weeks

Your baby is around 27cm from head to toe now, about the size of a fig and continuing to grow. Your placenta will also keep growing throughout your pregnancy, providing nourishment for your little one.
Amazingly, your baby’s gums are already developing tooth buds, ready for their first teeth to come through a few months after birth.
Their eyes will also have formed, but due to a lack of pigment in their iris they won’t have an eye colour yet. It’s also common for baby’s to be born with one eye colour but for them to change in the first few months.
Their other organs continue to grow with their pancreas producing essential hormones and their lungs also developing more rapidly, which will continue in the coming weeks.
Your baby might be developing their own little daily routine now, and establishing a pattern in their waking and sleeping. It might not be the same as yours though, so be prepared for some middle-of-the-night kicks and mid-morning quiet periods. (all good practice for the coming months!).

You at 22 weeks pregnant

You are probably enjoying your baby's movements right now, particularly when they 'perform' in response to your voice if you talk or sing to them, or jump if there is a loud noise or bang. You might also be enduring 'bump touchers' as your belly becomes more and more obvious – everyone from your work colleagues to the postman wanting to cop a feel of your expanding tummy! Don't be afraid to ask people not to – you are not public property just because you are pregnant.
Some mums-to-be experience some of the more annoying pregnancy symptoms as they head towards the third trimester. Puffy ankles and swollen feet can be a problem for some, so be sure to put your feet up whenever you can and to wear supportive and comfy shoes if this affects you. If you wear contact lenses, you might find they are becoming uncomfortable now, as well – speak to your optician for advice if you are experiencing this.

What to think about in week 22

Have you thought about baby-proofing your home yet? Obviously you are not going to have to be worrying about fridge locks and baby gates for a while, but you might want to make some changes in preparation for your newborn coming home. For example, where will your travel system live? Do you need to clear out the garage or under-stairs cupboard? Where will your Moses basket go - do you need to re-arrange your bedroom to fit it (or your baby's cot) in?
Think also about the organisation of your day-to-day living spaces - you'll need to make sure that everything is in easy reach for those breastfeeding sessions – if the phone is currently at the furthest point in the room from the sofa, you might want to make a few little changes!

 

21 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 21

21 weeks into your pregnancy and you are over half way there!

Your baby at week 21

At week 21 the average baby will measure around 27cm long and weigh around 360g but this will vary from baby to baby. They’re starting to gain weight now, and laying down some fat, which will give them that adorable chubby newborn appearance the moment you first set eyes on them!
Their eyebrows and eyelids have now formed and it’s possible for them to blink. Amazingly your baby will now already have taste buds and can taste a variety of different flavours depending on what you’re eating and what’s entering the Amniotic fluid. They will be swallowing this fluid now as they practice their technique.
Their skin is also looking a bit different now, as it will have gained a coating of a white, waxy substance known as Vernix caseosa. This protects their body from the effects of bobbing around in amniotic fluid for so long! You will probably see areas of it still on your baby when they are born.

You at 21 weeks pregnant

You might be thinking of booking your antenatal classes around now, if you have decided to attend them. Your midwife will have information about free local groups, and you can get details about NCT classes near to you online.
Lots of women make friends for life at their antenatal groups, so if it is your first baby, it is an excellent way of making lots of mum-to-be pals, and sharing experiences (and niggles and moans!) And of course, lots of little same age playmates for your bubba in the future! Classes can get booked up really quickly, so get your name down as soon as you can.
Apart from the socialising, you'll also learn about pain relief in labour, breathing techniques and your options in delivery at your classes – and if you go to a NHS one attached to your hospital, probably a tour of the delivery suite, too. Have a look at our pages on antenatal classes for more info.

What to think about in week 21

You probably find yourself absent-mindedly stroking your bump and chatting away to your baby quite a lot anyway, but did you know that they can hear you, and talking to them now will help them to recognise your voice once they are born? Some mums-to-be like to sit and read story books or sing nursery rhymes to their bumps, or play them certain music – you might even find that there are tunes which make your baby mega active!
Talking and reading to your unborn baby is something that dads can get involved in to, and is a lovely way to bond before birth.

 

20 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 20

20 weeks into your pregnancy and you are half way there!

Your baby at 20 weeks

By week 20, your baby will now measure around 16.5cm long, head to rump and around 25cm from head to heel. They are around the size of a banana and growing quickly!
If space allows, they are still having fun turning somersaults, and perhaps still taking you by surprise as they do so.
Although they are mainly just growing bigger and stronger now, there are some key elements of their development going on as the nerves in their brain which control the senses are still forming, eventually enabling them to smell, see, hear, taste and touch.
They will also start producing Meconium in their bowel. This is a harmless mixture of amniotic fluid that your baby has swallowed, digestive secretion and dead skin cells that will form your baby’s first bowel movement after birth.

You at 20 weeks pregnant

You might experience some aching in your tummy as your bump continues to grow – this is due to the ligaments each side of your womb stretching as your baby gets bigger and bigger. It is perfectly normal, but as with everything, do mention it to your midwife if you are worried.
Some women develop pains in their pelvis called pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PRGP) or symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) when pregnant (again, not dangerous, just uncomfortable) which can be treated with physio or support girdles – see our page on SPD for more info about this.
Your bump might mean you are struggling to get comfy in bed at this stage too, and so you could be feeling tired because of interrupted sleep. You can buy specially shaped pregnancy pillows to help support your bump and enable you to get a good night's rest (many of these are also useful post-pregnancy for breastfeeding), or simply to offer you more support when you are sitting or chilling on the sofa.

What to think about in week 20

If you have pets you might be wondering how to best introduce them to your new baby when the time comes, or how to successfully designate certain areas of the house pet free! Of course, your animals should never be left alone with your baby, or have access to their pram or cot, but you can take steps to additionally protect your little one from inquisitive pets.
Nets that go over your Moses basket or cot are easily available on the high street, and baby gates have a plethora of uses which are not just restricted to keeping toddlers away from stairs!
Chat with your vet for professional advice on prepping your dog or cat for your new arrival – although as long as basic common sense and safety is applied, you should all manage just fine!

 

19 weeks pregnant

What to expect this week

What's happening in week 19

At week 19 you are just a week away from being half way through your pregnancy!

Your baby at week 19

Your baby now weighs more that your placenta, but doesn't yet have much in the way of body fat. They’ll measure around 14cm long, weigh 240g and will be about the size of a mango. Although they’re still small, it’s possible you might start to feel small movements from your baby as they continue to develop.
Your baby’s arms and legs are now in proportion and moving with more limb control as the cartilage begins hardening to bone.
Their skin is now losing its translucent look and beginning to develop pigment which will determine their skin tone. They will now also be covered in Vernix Caseosa, a thin waxy like substance that helps protects your babies skin from the amniotic fluid.
It’s also possible begin to develop hair on their scalp, although it’ll be white and pigment free as hair colour is yet to be determined.
Your baby's body is working very hard to grow strong and healthy, particularly its little heart – you'll no doubt have noticed when your midwife uses the Doppler to listen to your baby's heartbeat how much faster it is than your own!
Their brain is also continuing to develop with the specialised areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision and touch. It’s actually possible that they might be able to hear your voice now.

You at 19 weeks pregnant

Your baby's movements may start feeling more like proper kicks now, and might occasionally take you by surprise! Best not use your bump as a convenient coffee table or lap tray!
You might even be able to identify a foot or an elbow at times, and your partner might enjoy feeling these movements as well, and getting to bond with your baby and feel more involved.
Your increased bump size could be causing you heartburn or indigestion by 19 weeks – speak to your midwife if this is bothering you.
The increase of hormones in your body could also leave you feeling a little breathless at times – this is usually harmless and normal in pregnancy, but do tell your GP if you are getting really out of breath.
Some mums experience blurry vision at this stage, too, most likely because of water retention – this usually corrects itself after birth, but again, flag it up with your GP or your optician if you are worried.

What to think about in week 19

As you are busy buying things for your little one's nursery and wardrobe, you might be having the great nappy debate with your partner or mum pals! The choice is yours of course, disposables or reusables, and both have their merits. Cloth nappies have come a very long way since the days of folding towelling squares into shape and pinning them in place!
Some local authorities even have incentives for parents to go green and use cloth nappies rather than land-filling disposables. It all comes down to personal preference of course, and what works for your family budget and your baby – and you might find it's a case of trial and error to discover what ultimately suits you best of all.