You are 40 weeks exactly

You've reached 40 weeks exactly! It may have seemed a long wait, but it'll be worth it once you're holding your baby.

Congratulations! If you don't yet have your newborn in your arms, you soon will, and your life will be changed forever. Even the longest pregnancy seems surprisingly short once labor begins and it sinks in that you'll soon be holding your baby.

You'll get through labor, and you'll forget the discomfort after a few good sessions describing it to family and close friends. In fact, everything before the moment you first hold your newborn becomes unimportant when you realize you've created the most wondrous thing of all: a new life. So good luck and well done! This is just the beginning of the most amazing years of your life.

As a matter of fact

Choosing a name

In a recent survey, 58 percent of parents believed the name they gave their baby would contribute to their success in life. More found it easier to name a boy than a girl, and just 3 percent said they'd change their baby's name if they could.

Explainer

From bump to baby

Your pregnancy is coming to an end, so rather than nurturing your belly, you'll soon be nurturing your amazing newborn.

This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.

Choosing a name

From bump to baby

Appointments and key dates around now