Week 42 of Pregnancy
Your baby is about the size of a winter melon
Your Baby This Week
Development milestones for week 42
Reaching 42 weeks pregnant is rare, occurring in only about 2 percent of pregnancies. Your baby is now post-term, likely weighing 8 to 9 pounds or more and measuring around 53 centimeters. At this stage, development is complete, and your baby continues gaining weight while waiting for labor signals. The placenta, which has been your baby's life support system, is reaching the end of its functional lifespan. Amniotic fluid levels may decrease, which is one reason providers monitor closely during this period. Your baby's skin might appear dry or peeling at birth, which is normal for post-term babies and resolves quickly. Fingernails and toenails may be quite long. Despite being "late," most 42-week babies are born healthy after careful monitoring and appropriate timing of delivery, whether spontaneous or induced.
Your Body This Week
Changes you may experience
If you are still pregnant at 42 weeks, you are in a small minority and probably feeling every day of it. The emotional toll of being this overdue is significant. Fielding constant questions, managing expectations, and simply existing in a body this uncomfortable is exhausting. You might feel frustrated, anxious, or even angry. These feelings are completely understandable. Physically, you are likely experiencing all the late pregnancy symptoms amplified: severe pelvic pressure, constant bathroom trips, sleepless nights, back pain, and Braxton Hicks that go nowhere. Some women feel a sense of failure that their body has not gone into labor naturally. Please know this is not a failure. Sometimes babies simply need a nudge to begin their journey. Induction at this point is a safe, evidence-based approach to bringing your baby safely into the world.
Tips & Advice for Week 42
Practical guidance from real moms
Most providers will not allow pregnancy to continue beyond 42 weeks due to increased risks, so if you have not already, expect detailed induction discussions. Understand that induction is not a failure. It is a medically supported tool to ensure your baby arrives safely. Many induced labors progress smoothly, especially when your body is already primed from weeks of prelabor changes. If you are nervous about induction, ask your provider to walk through each step: what happens, how long it takes, what options you have along the way. Having a clear picture reduces anxiety significantly. Write down your questions before your appointment. Bring your partner or support person to help remember details. Pack some entertainment for potential waiting periods during early induction stages. Most importantly, focus on the end goal: meeting your healthy baby very soon.
Medical Guidance for Week 42
What to discuss with your healthcare provider
Induction is strongly recommended by 42 weeks because placental function declines and stillbirth risk increases. Your provider will discuss induction methods based on your cervical readiness: Cervidil or misoprostol for cervical ripening, Foley bulb for mechanical dilation, amniotomy (breaking water), and Pitocin for contraction stimulation. Continuous monitoring during induction ensures baby tolerates labor well. Trust your medical team. They are focused on bringing your baby safely into your arms.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.