Pregnancy

Week 40 of Pregnancy — A Time for Well-Deserved Rest

A key concern at 40 weeks is rapid labor. The baby might arrive very quickly, especially if this is not your first childbirth. That’s why your doctor might suggest staying at the hospital to avoid losing valuable time on the road.

If this isn't possible, avoid exhausting and long trips.

In the remaining time before labor, it's best to rest well. Believe me, after your baby is born, you’ll miss having so much free time. Stay calm, as your state greatly affects the baby. Focus on the delivery and think only positive thoughts.

Now is not the time to experiment with your diet.

Focus on foods high in protein and carbohydrates: they will help you gather strength and energy for labor. Your body now needs vitamin K (found in spinach, all types of cabbage, asparagus, herbs, plums, and prunes). This vitamin improves blood clotting, which is very important for labor. You also need vitamin A, found in yellow, red, and orange vegetables and fruits, beef liver, egg yolks, and fatty dairy products. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to low birth weight. Additionally, at 39–40 weeks of pregnancy, you need B vitamins: they ensure not only the proper development of the fetus but also the well-being of the mother. The most valuable source is brewer’s yeast, but it should only be used after consulting with a doctor. B vitamins are also found in oatmeal, millet, meat, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy products.

Sex at 39–40 weeks of pregnancy

Expectant parents often wonder if it is safe to have sex at 39–40 weeks of pregnancy. In the absence of contraindications, it is not prohibited. In some cases, sexual contact is even recommended as a means of preparing for labor. Semen contains the hormone prostaglandin, which softens the cervix, and an orgasm can stimulate the onset of contractions.

Recommendations for the Mother:

• Don’t forget to take walks in the fresh air.
• Try not to be alone and avoid long-distance travel.
• Allocate 1–2 hours for a daytime nap and sleep at least 8–9 hours at night. You need strength and energy for labor and subsequent care of the newborn.
• Active women should temporarily halt intense workouts. Week 40 of pregnancy is a significant time, and any physical exertion might not be beneficial for the mother's and baby's health. Instead of gym or swimming workouts, opt for long walks, breathing exercises, light home workouts, and Kegel exercises.

You are fully prepared to bring a new life into the world!

Kimberly-Clark makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical or other health professional advice.