40 Weeks Pregnant: How Big Is Your Baby?
At 40 weeks pregnant, you’ve reached your due date. This is a huge milestone, and while some babies arrive right on time, many take a little longer. Every pregnancy is different, and your baby will arrive when they are ready.
How Big Is Your Baby at 40 Weeks?
At 40 weeks, your baby is around the size of a pumpkin, measuring roughly 50 to 52 centimetres long from head to heel.
Your baby is now fully developed and ready for life outside the womb.
What Is Happening at 40 Weeks Pregnant?
At this stage, your baby is fully prepared for birth.
At 40 weeks:
- Your baby’s organs are fully developed
- The lungs are ready for breathing independently
- Your baby continues to gain small amounts of weight
- Movements may feel different due to limited space
- Your baby is likely in a head-down position
Your baby is simply waiting for the right time to begin the journey into the world.
Common Symptoms at 40 Weeks
As you reach your due date, your body is preparing for labour.
You might experience:
- Increased pelvic pressure
- Regular or irregular contractions
- Back pain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Frequent need to urinate
These are all signs that your body is getting ready for birth.
Signs Labour May Be Starting
Labour can begin in different ways, but common signs include:
- Regular contractions that become stronger and closer together
- Your waters breaking
- A show (passing of the mucus plug)
- Lower back pain or cramping
- A feeling of increased pressure
If you think labour has started, you should contact your midwife or maternity unit.
What If Your Baby Is Late?
It’s very common for babies to arrive after the due date.
Many pregnancies go beyond 40 weeks, especially with a first baby. Your healthcare team will continue to monitor you and discuss options if your pregnancy goes past 41 weeks.
Reassurance in the Final Days
As you wait for labour to begin, it’s natural to want reassurance that everything is progressing well.
A growth and presentation scan can help:
- Confirm your baby’s position
- Check overall wellbeing
- Estimate your baby’s weight
This can provide peace of mind as you approach birth.
Pregnancy Support in Consett and the North East
At our clinic in Consett, we support parents at every stage of pregnancy. Whether you’re looking for reassurance in the early weeks or want to see your baby in 4D later on, our scans are designed to give you both clarity and a special bonding experience.
Parents visit us from across Consett, County Durham, Newcastle and the wider North East for trusted, private baby scans in a calm and welcoming environment.
The Final Step of Your Journey
Reaching 40 weeks pregnant is an incredible milestone. You’ve come through every stage of pregnancy, and now you’re ready to meet your baby. Whether your baby arrives today, tomorrow, or in a few days’ time, this is the final step before a life-changing moment.
What To Expect
Booking Your Appointment
Start your journey by booking your scan appointment online or over the phone. Choose the scan type that best suits your needs and select a convenient time slot. We may contact you for more information if we feel it necessary.
Arriving at the Clinic
We are located in the main building, Prospect House.
There is plenty of free parking available.
The clinic is on the First Floor, accessed via stairs. Please note there is no disabled access.
Check-in Process
Enter the main reception and take a seat. One of our team members will greet you when it's time for your appointment.
You'll be asked to read and sign your booking/consent form.
Relax in our comfortable waiting area while we prepare for your scan.
Having Your Scan
In the scan room, you'll get to see your beautiful baby.
A female chaperone will be present if a transvaginal scan is required (we will always discuss this with you beforehand).
Feel free to ask any questions at any time - this is YOUR scan appointment!
After Your Scan
After your scan, you'll have the opportunity to chat with our midwives about your pregnancy. Who better to ask than a professional midwife? We're here to answer any questions you may have and provide expert advice and reassurance.