Pregnancy week 41

Your baby’s development

Week 41 is "late term" (41–41+6). Your baby is about the size of a watermelon: roughly 51.7 cm long and 3597 g. Most babies are healthy and continue to develop in this week, but placental function and the amount of amniotic fluid are monitored more closely as the due date passes, so your provider may see you more often. Your baby's nails may be long and the skin slightly peeling, a natural result of a longer time in fluid. The vernix layer may have reduced. Development continues and your baby is ready for birth. Your body is nearing the hormonal and physical changes that start labour. Your baby is still moving, sleeping and waking. Keeping track of movements is an important part of caring for yourself and your baby now. Your provider may suggest extra checks to confirm your baby is well; these are safe and routine.

Changes in the mother

When the due date has passed, impatience, tiredness and worry are natural. At 41 weeks your provider may increase the frequency of visits, with checks of the baby's movements, heartbeat and amniotic fluid. These checks are not a warning; they are part of moving forward safely. Your provider will talk through whether waiting for labour to begin or planning the birth is right for you. Induction of labour is sometimes recommended and is one of the safe options, so ask any questions you have. Because every situation is different, your provider's advice comes first. While waiting you may have back and pelvic pain, poor sleep and tension. A warm shower, a gentle walk, breathing practice and time with loved ones can help. Being patient with yourself and your body is the most valuable approach in this stretch.

To do this week

• Attend the extra monitoring appointments your provider suggests.
• Prepare and ask your provider any questions you have about induction of labour.
• Keep tracking your baby's movements each day.
• Make sure your bag and travel plan are ready.

Tip for the partner

Going along to appointments and listening to the doctor together is a good way to support her in decisions.

Nutrition tip

Regular meals and enough water are enough to keep your energy up at this stage.