41 weeks pregnant

Your Child may still be having a good time in your womb and unusually that’s no problem at all. Although labor can start anytime, you can help out by going for long walks. 

Your Child’s development
The little one has now completely developed and is only adding more weight, which means Your Child is now considered a “late-term” baby. 

Test: Doctors may recommend to run some tests like electronic fetal monitoring, non-stress test or a biophysical profile. These tests may be done weekly or twice weekly. The same test may need to be repeated or a different test may need to be done. In some case, delivery may be recommended.  Electronic fetal monitor, use to test fetal well-being. Non-stress test, use to measure fetal heart rate for a specific period of time. Biophysical profile, check fetal heart rate, breathing, movement, and muscle tone, the amount of amniotic fluid also is assessed. 

Genital organs: Because of the hormones in your body, the baby’s genitals may look swollen when she or he is born, but they’ll soon settle down to their normal size

Your development
Just wait for labor to start naturally if there’s no risk to your health and that of Your Child.

Meanwhile, you may still have some third-trimester symptoms, such as fatigue, swelling, and constipation. You can go for a walk to help ease the symptoms since walking helps your blood to  flow. In fact, a long walk and staying active can nudge Your Child so the little one wants to come out.   

If you’ve had a baby before, you’ll be offered a membrane sweep at your 41-week appointment. A membrane sweep involves having a vaginal (internal) examination that stimulates the cervix (neck of your womb) to produce hormones that may trigger natural labour. You do not have to have this – you can discuss it with your midwife.

What you can do now
It’s very likely that your doctor will discuss the possibility of inducing labor if Your Child doesn’t come out before the end of the week. 

Babies delivered after this period are likely to be much bigger, making delivery more difficult. More importantly, there may be an increased risk of complications for you and Your Child, and a C-section may be needed.