Pregnancy week by week · trimester 3
🍉 41 weeks pregnant: your baby is about the size of a watermelon
At 41 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a watermelon, and your midwife will talk with you about a membrane sweep and induction of labour.
Your baby this week
Your baby is around 51.5cm long and about 3.5kg, still roughly the size of a watermelon. They are fully ready for life outside and are simply taking their time. Your baby is still gaining a little weight, their nails may be quite long, and their skin may be slightly drier once born, as most of the vernix has gone. The placenta continues to look after them. Their movements should continue in their usual pattern, so keep tuning in each day.
You this week
Being overdue can feel like a test of patience. You may feel heavy, uncomfortable and tired of being asked for news. Practice contractions, a show or a niggly backache can come and go. You might feel frustrated or worried, and both are completely understandable. Your midwife will talk through your options with you so you can choose what feels right. Whatever you decide, you are not doing anything wrong by waiting for your baby.
Kind things to do this week
- Ask your midwife plenty of questions so you feel confident in whatever you choose.
- Rest, eat well and keep drinking water.
- Lean on your birth partner to handle the messages from friends and family.
Appointments around now
At your 41 week appointment, your midwife will usually offer a membrane sweep and talk with you about induction of labour, including when and where it would happen.
Questions to ask your midwife
- What does induction involve, and how long might it take?
- What monitoring would I have if I choose to wait?
When to call your midwife or maternity unit
If your baby's movements slow down, stop or feel different to their usual pattern, contact your maternity unit straight away, day or night. Do not wait until the next day. Please also call your midwife or maternity unit if you have bleeding, fluid leaking, a severe headache, changes to your vision, sudden swelling, or itching (especially on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet). If your waters break, or you think labour has started, call your maternity unit for advice.
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Questions
What is a membrane sweep?
Your midwife gently sweeps a finger around your cervix during an internal examination to help encourage labour. It can be uncomfortable and may cause a little spotting, and it is always your choice.
When will I be offered induction?
You will usually be offered induction from 41 weeks. Your midwife will explain the process and help you decide what feels right.
Not sure how far along you are? Use the due date calculator.
Sources
OBubba gives general information. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Your midwife and maternity unit are always the right people to ask, any time of day or night.