Third Trimester · Week 39
39 Weeks Pregnant: Full term!
Baby development
Your baby at 39 weeks
Your baby is considered full term this week, and the body is built for life on the outside. A sweet detail is that the brain is still doing a huge amount of development right up through the end, even when baby looks fully ready to meet you.
Your body this week
What you might be feeling at 39 weeks
The longest week. You're full-term and just waiting. Every old wives' tale about inducing labor will tempt you. Your baby will come when ready. Watch a movie, eat a good meal, sleep as much as you can. You're about to meet your baby.
From Shelbi
Shelbi Kohler · mother of seven · certified birth doula
This might be the longest week of your life. You're full-term, your baby is fully developed, and you're just waiting. With my first, I tried every old wives' tale — pineapple, walking, spicy food, even pumping. None of it worked. Your baby will come when your baby is ready, and trying to force it just adds stress. I know that's easy to say and hard to live. What I can tell you from seven pregnancies is this: the waiting feels endless, but the moment labor actually starts, you'll wish you'd enjoyed these last quiet days more. Watch a movie. Eat a good meal. Sleep as much as you can. You're about to meet your baby.
For you
This week is about getting through it
Scroll up to revisit your baby's development and Shelbi's encouragement for week 39. When you're ready, share this week with your partner.
Share this week
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You're getting close
The finish line is in sight — here are two things worth doing now
At 39 weeks, birth could be just around the corner. These two free guides will help you feel ready:
Free Birth Plan Template
A nurse-readable plan covering labor, pain management, delivery, postpartum, and newborn care.
Get the template → Free guideThe Benefits of a Doula
What the research says about doula support — shorter labors, fewer interventions, more confidence.
Read the benefits →Common questions
39 weeks pregnant: your questions answered
What should I expect at 39 weeks pregnant? +
The longest week. You're full-term and just waiting. Every old wives' tale about inducing labor will tempt you. Your baby will come when ready. Watch ...
Is my baby moving normally at 39 weeks? +
Movement patterns vary. If you notice a significant decrease in movement, contact your provider. When in doubt, always call.
Follow every week in the free app
Weekly baby updates, your birth plan, and doula-backed guidance — all free, all in one place.
Download the True Joy Birthing app