Welcome to your 40‑week pregnancy journey! This comprehensive guide breaks down each week into clear, actionable milestones. From the miracle of fertilization to the moment you welcome your little one, you'll find what to expect, how to care for yourself, and tips to support healthy fetal development.
Weeks 1‑4: The Silent Beginnings – During this time, the fertilized egg travels down the fallopian tube, implants in the uterine lining, and begins the first burst of cell division. Many women feel tired, nauseous, or miss their period. Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid, stay hydrated, and schedule your first prenatal visit to confirm pregnancy and set a baseline.
Weeks 5‑8: Growth Starts Fast – The embryo grows rapidly, forming the neural tube, heart, and major organs. By week six, the embryo appears as a little heart shape on an ultrasound. Symptoms intensify: morning sickness, fatigue, mood swings. Comfort your belly with supportive maternity clothes, gentle walks, and small, frequent meals.
Weeks 9‑12: The First Trimester – The fetus is now technically 60mm long. Facial features become defined. You might notice mild back pain and swollen ankles. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, and iron. Discuss a safe exercise routine with your provider.
Weeks 13‑16: Second Trimester Beginnings – At fifteen weeks, you may experience the “pregnancy glow” as hormones ease some morning sickness. The baby's limbs are now proportionate, and the first movement might be felt faintly. Plan a maternity checkup to discuss genetic screening options.
Weeks 17‑20: The Baby’s Tiny Movements – The fetus is now 20cm long. Its bones and organs are strengthening, and the placenta provides a nurturing environment. You can feel quick, gentle fluttering (quickening). Keep track of your water intake and wear comfortable footwear to support your growing belly.
Weeks 21‑24: Clearer Development – The baby’s organs are fully formed. Eyes open, hearing develops, and the lungs are beginning to mature. Pregnancy symptoms may start to lighten. Maintain regular prenatal visits and consider prenatal yoga or gentle stretching to reduce back strain.
Weeks 25‑28: The Middle of a Long Run – By week 26, the baby weighs around 1kg and can respond to light and sound. The placenta now supports most fetal oxygen needs. Prepare for the next steps: discuss your birth plan, choose a midwife or OB‑GYN, and organize maternity leave arrangements.
Weeks 29‑32: Rapid Growth Spurt – The fetus grows faster, adding 2–3cm per week. Your belly will extend further, and you might feel more pronounced pelvic pressure. Focus on sleep hygiene to improve rest, and continue balanced meals with a 2,000‑calorie goal.
Weeks 33‑36: Nearing the Finish Line – At this stage, the baby’s brains are almost fully developed, and the lungs are preparing for air breathing. You may notice increased heartburn, variable weight gain, or Braxton‑Hicks contractions. Schedule a final ultrasound and review anesthesia preferences with your provider.
Weeks 37‑40: Ready for Birth – The baby weighs 3–3.5kg and settles into the head‑first position. Your body signals the onset of labor: regular contractions, water breaking. Stay hydrated, practice breathing techniques, and familiarize yourself with your birthing setting. You’re almost ready to hold your newborn in your arms.
Congratulations! You’ve made it through 40 weeks of incredible change. Use this week‑by‑week map to stay informed, prepared, and empowered for your upcoming arrival. Your body and baby have been on a remarkable journey together—and the next chapter is just beginning.