42 weeks pregnant: advice, symptoms, and what to expect

At forty-two weeks pregnant there's a strong chance that this will be the week you meet your bundle of joy, particularly as your care team may recommend an induction if labour hasn’t started naturally. You still have choices, and your midwife or obstetrician will talk you through them. We know you probably thought that at 41 weeks pregnant too, sorry!

However you're feeling right now whether that’s excited, anxious, fed up or even a bit overwhelmed - it's all completely valid. Waiting for labour to start can be an emotional rollercoaster, especially at 42 weeks. The good news is that most babies are born by the end of this week, so you're very close to meeting your little one. Trust your body and trust the process.

Find out what your baby and body are doing in the last week of your pregnancy, including any symptoms to expect, and final things you should be doing at 42 weeks pregnant. We have enlisted the help of registered MAM Midwife Zoe Watson to help explain everything you need to expect when you reach 42 weeks pregnant, to help answer any questions and ease any worries.

How many months is 42 weeks pregnant?

Calculating how pregnant you are can get confusing, but the great thing is, you won't have to do it anymore soon. Zoe says, "Pregnancy is often described as 9 months, but in clinical terms we measure it as 40 weeks from the first day of your last period. So 42 weeks can feel like a very long wait, but you’re nearly there!"

Common symptoms at 42 weeks pregnant

Diarrhoea

Some people notice a bout of loose stools or diarrhoea in the days or hours before labour begins. It’s thought to be one of the body’s ways of getting ready for birth by making a bit of extra room for baby’s journey. While it might feel a little inconvenient or unexpected, it can be an early sign that things are starting to happen. Every labour begins differently, but this might be your body’s gentle nudge that you’re getting closer to meeting your baby.

Braxton Hicks

You might notice Braxton Hicks contractions becoming more frequent or more intense as your body gears up for labour. These are often called ‘practice contractions’ they’re usually irregular and don’t increase in strength over time. However, if your tightenings start to become regular, more intense, or you’re unsure whether they might be the real thing, don’t hesitate to contact your midwife or maternity unit.

Difficulty sleeping

"It’s completely normal to find sleep tricky at this stage, whether it’s excitement, nerves, physical discomfort or thoughts about the birth keeping you awake," says Zoe.

"Rest might not always look like a full night’s sleep right now, so be kind to yourself. Gentle breathing techniques, a warm bath, or even listening to a calming podcast or audiobook can help you unwind. Try to rest when you can, and remember this phase won’t last forever - you’re so close to meeting your baby".

Oedema

You’ve got a high volume of bodily fluids and such trouble moving around that this naturally brings on swelling in your feet and ankles, also known as oedema. Your body is holding onto extra fluid. Moving around can be harder now, which might make the swelling more noticeable. Zoe suggests, "Drinking plenty of water can actually help reduce this swelling, even though it might feel surprising. Resting with your feet raised when you can also helps encourage fluid to move away from your lower legs.

"However, if the swelling becomes severe, sudden, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, or belly pain, please contact your midwife straight away. These could be signs of pre-eclampsia, and it’s important to get checked promptly to keep you and your baby safe."

Waters breaking

If you notice any fluid leaking from your vagina, even if it’s just a small trickle, it’s important to get in touch with your midwife or maternity unit straight away. Sometimes waters break with a big gush, but for others, it might be a slow trickle or a steady leak. Either way, letting your care team know helps ensure you and your baby stay safe and supported as labour begins or is prepared for.

Mucus show

You might notice a thick, sticky discharge called the ‘show’ or ‘mucus show.’ This is a sign that your cervix is starting to soften and open as your body gets ready for labour. While it usually means labour is on the way, it can still be hours or days before things really begin, every labour is different.

Contractions

"You’ll know labour has started when you have strong, regular contractions that get closer together and don’t ease off with rest or changes in position," explains Zoe.

"These contractions are usually much more intense than Braxton Hicks and will continue until your baby is born. If you’ve had a baby before, you might find that labour is quicker and more straightforward this time around, every labour is unique, but many people notice this with second or subsequent babies."

Baby development at 42 weeks pregnant

Your baby's movement at 42 weeks

Your baby doesn't have a lot of room to move about anymore, but you should be able to feel them. You notice any changes in the way your baby moves, particularly a decrease in movement, call your healthcare provider immediately. Zoe explains, "Although your baby has less space to move around now, their movements should not slow down or stop. You should continue to feel your baby moving right up until and during labour. A change in your baby’s movements, particularly a reduction, can be a sign that they’re not well. If you notice any change at all, it’s really important to contact your midwife or maternity unit straight away, no matter the time of day or night. Maternity services are available 24/7, and you should never wait or feel like you're bothering anyone. You're always better off getting checked."

How is my baby's body developing at 42 weeks?

By 42 weeks, your baby’s organs and systems are fully developed and ready for life outside the womb. They’ve had extra time to grow and gain weight, and may look slightly different compared to babies born closer to their due date. For example, their skin may appear dry, cracked or peeling, this is because the protective coating called vernix, which helps to keep their skin moisturised in the womb, has usually been absorbed by this stage. This is completely normal for babies born post-term.

"You might also notice that your baby has longer fingernails or toenails, more visible hair on their head, and little or no lanugo (the fine downy hair that often covers the skin earlier in pregnancy)," says Zoe.

These are all typical signs of a baby who has spent a little longer growing in the womb. Babies born at this stage have sometimes passed a small amount of meconium (their first poo) into the amniotic fluid. This can give your waters a green or brown colour when they break. While this is more common in babies born around 42 weeks, it’s still important to inform your midwife or obstetrician straight away if you notice any discolouration. Meconium in the waters can sometimes be a sign that your baby is not coping well, and your care team may recommend further monitoring to make sure everything is okay.

How big is my baby at 42 weeks?

At 42 weeks pregnant, you probably won't be surprised to know that your baby is the size of a watermelon. They'll weigh up to nine pounds and be between 19 and 22 inches from head to bottom. They have been shy so far, enjoying their comfy home in your womb, but it’s finally time for them to make their big appearance.

They’ve been enjoying a little extra time in their cosy home, but it’s nearly time for their big arrival.

Zoe says, "While babies born at this stage can sometimes be on the larger side, your body has been preparing for this moment, and with the right support, you’ll be well equipped to birth your baby safely and confidently. Remember, your midwifery team is here to help guide and support you every step of the way."

Your body at 42 weeks pregnant

It’s completely understandable to feel frustrated or anxious if your baby hasn’t arrived yet. Due dates are estimates, and sometimes babies arrive a little later than expected, but this waiting time will soon be over, and you’ll be meeting your little one very soon.

Remember, your midwife and healthcare team are here to support you every step of the way. They’ll keep a close eye on you and your baby’s wellbeing and will discuss any options with you based on what’s best for you both.

If options such as membrane sweeps or induction of labour are offered, it’s important to feel confident in your choices. You might find it helpful to use the BRAIN acronym to guide your decision-making:

Your midwife is there to answer your questions and support you in making the decision that feels right for you and your baby. Every induction process can vary due to your circumstances or risk factors, and your midwife has experienced them all.

Looking after yourself at 42 weeks pregnant

You may be frustrated at the fact your baby is overdue, but remember that only 2% of women are really overdue. Most of the time - 70% of the time, in fact - women aren’t actually post-term, but they have been told they are thanks to miscalculations around the due date. Many are ready to give birth at around 40 weeks and have their hospital bag ready to go, but getting to 42 weeks does spare you time, even if its more time to think about the fourth trimester and what you want your dream birth to look like.

As you navigate these final days of pregnancy, try to take things one moment at a time. You’ve been carrying this little one for a long stretch, and however you're feeling, physically or emotionally, you're doing an incredible job. Whether your baby chooses to arrive on their own or with a bit of support, you're still very much in control of your journey.

Be aware of your rights. You have the right to decline an induction if you wish. Your obstetrician or midwife will chat with you about any risks that exist for you and your baby, but they should also respect your wishes.

Zoe says, "If decisions need to be made around your care, take your time and know that your choices matter. Every pregnancy is unique, and your care should reflect that. You're surrounded by a team whose aim is to work with you, ensuring you and your baby stay safe, supported, and heard. Most of all, keep picturing that moment when you finally meet your baby, it’s coming, and it will be worth every bit of this wait."

Scans and appointments at 42 weeks pregnant

At 42 weeks pregnant, you'll be in contact with your midwife more often than you have been.

One of the main worries at 42 weeks pregnant is that your placenta can start to become less efficient at supplying your baby with all the food and nutrients and oxygen needed to grow properly. That’s why you will be monitored regularly when you’re overdue with scans and heartbeat checks.

Remember, your due date can be inaccurate as it’s worked out as 280 days after the first day of your last period. However, if your menstrual cycle is normally longer than 28 days, the true date can be different. Ultimately, remember the doctors and midwives are all looking out for the wellbeing of you and your baby – who you are going to meet very soon!

Conclusion

You've reached 42 weeks, that's a huge moment and as you navigate these final days of pregnancy, try to take things one moment at a time. You’ve been carrying this little one for a long stretch, and however you're feeling, physically or emotionally, you're doing an incredible job. Whether your baby chooses to arrive on their own or with a bit of support, you're still very much in control of your journey.

About the expert

Zoe Watson is a Registered Nurse and Midwife with over fifteen years of experience in caring for patients and their families. She has worked in various settings, from a specialist home birth team to a high-risk delivery suite. Zoe is passionate about maintaining her professional development to enhance the advice and support she gives to new and expectant parents.

About the author

Hannah Mellin is Digital Writer at Mother & Baby. She is a mama to a nearly two year old little boy and is is navigating her way through first-time parenthood, every developmental leap at a time. She is up for trying anything and everything to make mums feel less anxious and overwhelmed. She is passionate about nature, body positivity and children's mental health.