Week 39 Pregnancy

Third Trimester

Last reviewed: July 2026

39 weeks pregnant at a glance

You are in the third trimester.
Your baby is roughly the size of a small watermelon.
Midwife appointment.
Every pregnancy is different, so don't worry if your experience varies slightly.

You are 39 weeks pregnant and in your third trimester. Your baby is about the size of a small watermelon. This week's key development: Any Day Now. NHS note: Midwife appointment.

This page is for general pregnancy planning and date guidance only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnancy dates are estimates and can change after a scan or advice from your midwife, GP, or maternity team. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional if you have symptoms, concerns, or questions about your pregnancy.

Week 38

Week 40

Baby's Development

Your baby is about the size of a small watermelon.

Any Day Now — Your baby is full term. They're well-cushioned with fat, their skull bones are in place, and they're in the best possible position for birth. Braxton Hicks contractions may be more frequent. Rest, nest, and trust your body — it knows exactly what to do.

Small watermelon

Approx. 50.7cm

Your Symptoms

Strong Braxton Hicks
Backache
Pressure in your pelvis

Every pregnancy is different. You may experience all, some, or none of these symptoms — and that's completely normal. If anything concerns you, speak to your midwife.

NHS Appointments

Midwife appointment. They may offer a membrane sweep if you're interested.

Practical Advice for Week 39

Nutrition

Continue vitamin D and eat well.
Keep snacks accessible — you'll want energy when early labour starts.
Isotonic drinks (like Lucozade Sport) are good to sip during labour.
Eat normally until contractions become strong and close together.

Exercise

Walking can help encourage labour — listen to your body.
Birth ball exercises keep the pelvis mobile.
Rest between walks — conserve energy.
Pelvic floor exercises — yes, still!

Wellbeing

Strong Braxton Hicks can feel like early labour — time them.
Real contractions get longer, stronger, and closer together.
Back pain may increase — a warm bath or shower can help.
Trust your body — it has grown this baby and it knows how to birth them.

Preparation

Your midwife may offer a membrane sweep to encourage labour.
Keep a log of contractions if they start — there are free apps for this.
Your birth partner should be on immediate standby.
Check your hospital bag one final time — baby's clothes, nappies, car seat.

Tip of the Week

Keep a log of your contractions if they start to feel regular and stronger.

Frequently Asked Questions for Week 39

How many months is 39 weeks pregnant?

At 39 weeks pregnant, you are roughly 9 months pregnant. Remember that pregnancy is typically measured in weeks rather than months for clinical accuracy.

What size is the baby at 39 weeks?

At 39 weeks, your baby is roughly the size of a small watermelon (about 50.7cm). Your baby is full term. They're well-cushioned with fat, their skull bones are in place, and they're in the best possible position for birth. Braxton Hicks contractions may be more frequent. Rest, nest, and trust your body

What are the common symptoms at 39 weeks pregnant?

Common symptoms at this stage include strong braxton hicks, backache, pressure in your pelvis. Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it's normal to experience different symptoms.

Is 39 weeks in the third trimester?

Yes, 39 weeks falls within the third trimester.

Are there any NHS appointments at 39 weeks?

Midwife appointment. They may offer a membrane sweep if you're interested.