Week 40: The Due Date
Baby is about the size of Small pumpkin (514mm)
The Estimated Date of Delivery (EDD). Only ~5% of babies arrive exactly on this date. Placental function is peak but will soon decline.
Cervix may continue to change. NST may be suggested if pregnancy continues. Emotional lability is common.
What is important now
Only ~5% of babies arrive on the due date. Continue kick counting. Discuss post-date monitoring with your provider.
Common symptoms
- decreased fetal movement — contact provider immediately
Wellness this week.
Nutrition
Labor preparation
- Continue balanced eating
- Stay hydrated
- Small frequent meals
Exercise
Movement
Gentle movement
Sleep
As much as possible
Position: Left side
· Sleep whenever you can
Mental wellness
Mindfulness
The due date is just an estimate. Trust the process.
“Your baby will come when they're ready.”
Your timeline.
Week 6
34 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — Mutterpass may be issued upon heartbeat confirmation
Week 19
21 weeks ago- routineWeeks 19–22
Checkpoint 2 — Screening Ultrasound
Choice between a basic biometric scan or detailed organ scan. Measures head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and checks placental position.
GoalAssess fetal anatomy and growth, check for structural abnormalities, and verify placental location.
Week 28
12 weeks ago- routine
Checkpoint 1 — GDM screening
- routine
Checkpoint 2 — Rhogam if Rh-negative
Week 29
11 weeks ago- routineWeeks 29–32
Checkpoint 3 — Screening Ultrasound
Third and final routine ultrasound. Assesses fetal growth, position (cephalic/breech), amniotic fluid volume, and placental function.
GoalConfirm appropriate growth trajectory and baby's position for delivery planning.
Week 35
5 weeks ago- self pay igelWeeks 35–37
Checkpoint 1 — GBS Testing — Self-pay/IGeL
Rectovaginal swab to screen for Group B Streptococcus colonization. If positive, IV antibiotics are given during labor to prevent neonatal infection.
GoalIdentify GBS carriers to enable prophylactic treatment during delivery.
Safety: Only 5% of babies arrive on their due date. Most arrive within 2 weeks before or after.
Your journey, your rhythm.
Track your pregnancy week by week with gentle, personalized guidance.