You and your baby at 39 weeks pregnant

Your baby at 39 weeks

In the last weeks, some time before birth, the baby's head should move down into your pelvis. When your baby's head moves down like this, it's said to be "engaged".

When this happens, you may notice your bump seems to move down a little. Sometimes the head does not engage until labour starts.

You at 39 weeks

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related condition. Not everyone with pre-eclampsia has symptoms, but the urine and blood pressure tests at your antenatal visits check for it.

Symptoms can include severe headaches, vision problems – such as blurring or seeing flashing lights – pain just below the ribs, and sudden increase in swelling of the hands, face or feet.

There are several signs that labour might be starting.

Find out about the signs of labour and when to call your midwife.

Read about what happens during labour and birth.

Things to think about

• how to pack your bag for labour: check you've got everything
• what happens straight after the birth

The Start4Life site has more about you and your baby at 39 weeks pregnant.

You can sign up for Start4Life's weekly emails for expert advice, videos and tips on pregnancy, birth and beyond.