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You feel how your body is changing - a pull here, a pressure there, and suddenly it dawns on you: the time is near. The 39th week of pregnancy brings a mix of excitement, nervousness, and a thousand questions. But you are not alone - and you are ready, even if it doesn't always feel that way.

Your Baby at 39 Weeks: Ready for the Big Debut

Your little one has grown quite a bit in the last few weeks. At about 50 cm long and weighing 3,200 to 3,400 grams, your baby is now fully developed and just waiting for the right moment. In the fetal position – legs tucked in, arms crossed on the chest – it lies deep in your pelvis.

Space in your belly has become tight, which is why you may notice that your baby is moving less frequently than just a few weeks ago. This is completely normal. Instead of wild acrobatics, you might now feel gentle stretching or an occasional pressure against your ribs. Nevertheless, you should keep an eye on your baby's movements — if in doubt, it’s better to check in with your midwife or hospital once too often rather than too little.

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Recognizing Signs of Labor: When Does It Really Start?

Your body is sending you many signals these days — some are true harbingers of labor; others are just practice contractions. Here’s what to watch for:

Typical Signs That It’s About to Happen

  • Light Contractions: Your belly drops lower, the baby descends into the pelvis. You suddenly feel lighter but have more pressure on your bladder.
  • Back Pain and Pelvic Pressure: A persistent, dull pain in your lower back and a feeling of downward pressure are typical signs.
  • Loss of the Mucus Plug: A glassy, sometimes slightly bloody discharge indicates that the cervix is preparing. This can happen days before labor.
  • Water Breaking: If your water breaks — whether as a gush or a trickle — you should head to the hospital, even if contractions haven’t started yet.
  • Regular Contractions: True labor contractions come at increasingly shorter intervals (initially every 10 minutes, later every 5 minutes), become stronger, and cannot be stopped by resting or taking a warm bath.

Not every pregnant woman experiences all of these signs. Some women barely notice pre-labor and jump straight into strong labor contractions. Trust your instincts — you'll know when it's serious.

What to Expect During Labor: The Three Phases

Labor is a marathon, not a sprint. It unfolds in three main phases, which each woman experiences with different intensity and duration. Here's an overview to prepare you for what's to come.

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Opening Phase: The Longest Stage

This phase begins with the first regular contractions and ends when the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm). For first-time mothers, it often lasts 8 to 14 hours, sometimes even longer. The contractions become increasingly stronger and happen more frequently. Here’s what will help you:

  • Movement and changing positions (walking, hands and knees position, exercise ball)
  • Breathing techniques and relaxation exercises
  • Heat (warm towels, shower, bath)
  • The support of your partner or midwife

Delivery Phase: Your Baby is Born

Once the cervix is fully dilated, the delivery phase begins. Now you can actively push. This phase usually lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours. You will feel an enormous urge to push — your body takes the lead. With each contraction, your baby moves lower, until you finally hold it in your arms. This moment is indescribable — pure love, relief, and joy.

Afterbirth Phase: The Conclusion

After your baby is born, the placenta is delivered. This usually takes just 10 to 30 minutes and is hardly noticeable compared to the delivery itself. Your body contracts, the placenta separates, and is expelled with a few gentle contractions. After that, your midwife or doctor will take care of any birth injuries.

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Your Preparation: Practical Tips for the Last Days

Even if you don’t know exactly when it will start — you can prepare as best as possible and consciously enjoy the last days before the birth.

  • Packing your hospital bag: If you haven’t done so already, pack your bag with all the essentials (documents, comfortable clothes, snacks, charger, baby clothes).
  • Having your birth plan ready: Write down your wishes for labor (pain relief, birth position, bonding) and discuss them with your partner.
  • Staying calm: Avoid strenuous activities. Take mindful breaks, get plenty of rest, read a book, or listen to relaxing music.
  • Light exercise: Taking walks boosts circulation and can stimulate contractions without overwhelming you.
  • Contacting your midwife: Clarify any last questions, discuss uncertainties, and ensure you know when to reach out.

Remember: Most babies are born between the 37th and 42nd week of pregnancy. Even if your due date has passed, that is completely normal. Patience is your best friend right now.

Frequently Asked Questions about Week 39 and Labor

During this exciting phase, many questions arise. Here are the most important answers:

  • When should I go to the hospital? If contractions are regular (every 5-10 minutes), if your water breaks, or if you have heavy bleeding, you should head to the hospital.
  • Can I speed up labor? Movement, sex, spicy food, or acupuncture can encourage contractions — but only if your body is ready. Nothing can be forced.
  • What if I'm afraid of labor? That’s completely normal. Talk to your midwife, attend a childbirth preparation class, or share your feelings with other moms. Knowledge and preparation can ease a lot of fear.
  • Do I need an epidural? You decide that during labor. Many women do fine without one, while others appreciate the pain relief. Both are okay.
  • What happens if my baby doesn't turn? With a breech presentation, your doctor will discuss options with you (external version, vaginal birth, or cesarean section).
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You Can Do It - Trust Your Body

The 39th week of pregnancy is a time of waiting, anticipation, and sometimes impatience. Your body is doing something incredible — preparing for one of the most intense experiences of your life. Trust that it knows what to do. You are stronger than you think.

Soon you will hold your baby in your arms – and all the tiredness, pain, and effort will pale in that moment. You will discover a strength within you that you didn’t know you had. And you will understand why so many women say: It was worth every second.

Breathe deeply, trust yourself, and enjoy these last moments as a two-person team. The big day is coming – and you are ready.