Pregnancy week 40 is the milestone most people have been counting toward since the beginning of pregnancy: your estimated due date.

But a due date is an estimate, not an expiration date.

A typical pregnancy averages about 280 days, or 40 weeks, counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. Only about 1 in 20 women give birth on their exact estimated due date, according to ACOG.

If labor has not started at exactly 40 weeks, that does not automatically mean anything is wrong.

Under ACOG terminology, pregnancy from 39 weeks 0 days through 40 weeks 6 days is full term. Pregnancy becomes late term at 41 weeks 0 days and postterm at 42 weeks 0 days.

At week 40, fetal movement remains important, labor can begin at any time, and prenatal care increasingly focuses on:

• fetal movement;
• blood pressure;
• urine testing;
• fetal position;
• signs of labor;
• rupture of membranes;
• what happens if pregnancy continues into week 41.

Quick answer: At 40 weeks pregnant, the fetus is around 51.2 cm from head to heel, approximately the size of a pumpkin according to NHS guidance. The pregnancy remains full term, fetal movement should continue in the baby’s usual pattern, and labor may begin naturally at any time. If pregnancy continues into week 41, your maternity team may discuss additional monitoring or induction.

Is 40 Weeks Pregnant Full Term?

Yes.

ACOG defines:

• Early term: 37 weeks 0 days through 38 weeks 6 days
• Full term: 39 weeks 0 days through 40 weeks 6 days
• Late term: 41 weeks 0 days through 41 weeks 6 days
• Postterm: 42 weeks 0 days and beyond

Therefore, 40 weeks pregnant is full term.

Does Pregnancy Become Overdue at Exactly 40 Weeks?

Not in the medical sense.

Your estimated due date marks the average expected length of pregnancy, not a strict deadline.

ACOG states that the average pregnancy lasts 280 days, or 40 weeks, from the first day of the last menstrual period.

Many healthy pregnancies continue beyond the estimated due date.

How Accurate Is the Due Date?

The estimated due date helps healthcare professionals:

• calculate gestational age;
• schedule prenatal tests;
• assess fetal growth;
• plan late-pregnancy care.

ACOG notes that the due date is often based on the last menstrual period and may be confirmed using early ultrasound. Once the due date has been established appropriately, it generally should not keep changing because of later scans.

How Many Babies Are Born on Their Due Date?

Not many.

ACOG states that only about 1 in 20 women give birth on their exact due date.

That means most babies arrive either:

• before;
• after;

the estimated date.

How Big Is the Baby at 40 Weeks?

The NHS estimates the fetus at around 51.2 cm from head to heel.

That is approximately the size of a pumpkin.

This is an average rather than an individual target.

Healthy full-term newborns vary significantly in:

• length;
• weight;
• head size;
• body build.

What Is Developing at 40 Weeks?

MedlinePlus describes weeks 38–40 as the final fetal-development phase.

During this stage:

• most lanugo has disappeared except around the upper arms and shoulders;
• fingernails may extend beyond the fingertips;
• small breast buds are present in both sexes;
• scalp hair is thicker and coarser.

At week 40, the fetus is prepared for birth, but development continues right up until delivery.

Is the Baby Fully Developed at 40 Weeks?

Most major structures are mature enough to support life after birth, but development does not suddenly stop at the due date.

The third trimester remains a period of:

• fetal weight gain;
• organ maturation;
• preparation for independent function after birth.

The brain, lungs and nervous system continue maturing through late pregnancy.

Is the Baby’s Brain Still Developing?

Yes.

The brain continues developing neural connections involved in:

• breathing;
• feeding;
• movement;
• temperature regulation;
• sensory processing;
• sleep.

Brain development continues rapidly after birth as well.

Are the Lungs Mature at 40 Weeks?

At full term, the lungs are generally substantially mature.

However, birth itself triggers major changes in respiratory function.

Before birth, the fetus receives oxygen through the placenta.

After delivery, the newborn must:

• inflate the lungs;
• breathe air;
• redirect blood flow through the lungs.

This is one of the major physiological transitions after birth.

Is the Baby Still Gaining Weight?

Yes.

Fetal weight can continue increasing while pregnancy continues.

Late-pregnancy weight gain contributes to:

• fat stores;
• temperature regulation;
• energy reserves.

The amount varies substantially between babies.

Is Lanugo Still Present?

Most lanugo is usually gone by weeks 38–40.

MedlinePlus notes that some may remain around the:

• upper arms;
• shoulders.

Some newborns may still have visible fine hair after delivery.

Are the Fingernails Long?

They can be.

MedlinePlus notes that fingernails may extend beyond the fingertips during weeks 38–40.

This is a normal late-pregnancy feature.

Does the Baby Have Hair?

Possibly.

Scalp hair is becoming thicker and coarser during the final weeks.

The amount varies enormously.

A newborn may have:

• thick hair;
• fine hair;
• very little visible hair.

Is the Baby Still Moving at 40 Weeks?

Yes.

This is extremely important.

The NHS states that although the fetus is now quite squashed inside the uterus, movement should continue in the baby’s usual pattern. Movements should not slow down or stop simply because the due date has arrived.

Does Less Space Mean Less Movement?

The type of movement can change because the fetus has limited space.

You may notice more:

• rolling;
• stretching;
• pushing;
• twisting;
• localized kicks.

But movement itself should continue.

What If Fetal Movement Is Reduced at 40 Weeks?

Contact your maternity unit promptly.

The NHS specifically advises contacting maternity care immediately if movements change or stop.

Do not wait for:

• labor to start;
• the next day;
• the next scheduled appointment.

Should You Use a Home Doppler?

No.

A home Doppler cannot confirm that fetal wellbeing is normal.

Finding a heartbeat can create false reassurance.

If movement changes, professional assessment is the safer response.

Can Labor Begin at Any Time?

Yes.

At 40 weeks, spontaneous labor can begin at any time.

The NHS describes week 40 as a stage when the wait is almost over and labor may start within days.

What Are the Signs Labor May Be Starting?

Possible signs include:

• regular painful contractions;
• lower backache;
• increasing pelvic pressure;
• mucus plug or “show”;
• waters breaking;
• cervical changes.

Symptoms vary from person to person.

What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Braxton Hicks are practice contractions.

The NHS notes that many people experience frequent Braxton Hicks by week 40.

They may make the abdomen feel:

• hard;
• tight;
• firm.

They are generally not progressively painful or regular.

What Do True Labor Contractions Feel Like?

The NHS explains that real labor contractions involve the uterus becoming tight and painful, followed by relaxation as the contraction ends.

As labor progresses, contractions generally become:

• stronger;
• longer;
• more regular;
• closer together.

When Should You Call the Hospital?

The NHS week-40 guide advises contacting the hospital or midwife when contractions are around 60 seconds long and occur approximately every 5 minutes.

However, follow the instructions given by your own maternity service.

Call sooner if:

• your waters break;
• you have bleeding;
• fetal movement reduces;
• you feel seriously unwell.

What Are the Three Stages of Labor?

The NHS divides labor into three main stages.

First Stage

The cervix opens progressively until it is fully dilated.

Contractions become established and increasingly effective.

Second Stage

The baby is delivered.

Third Stage

The placenta is delivered.

The exact duration of each stage varies significantly between individuals.

Does First Labor Take Longer?

It can.

The NHS notes that the first stage of established labor may take approximately 6–12 hours, and can be shorter in someone who has previously given birth.

Individual labor duration varies widely.

What Is Cervical Dilation?

The cervix gradually:

• softens;
• thins;
• opens;

during labor.

Full dilation is approximately 10 cm.

Dilation is assessed clinically rather than by symptoms alone.

What Is a Mucus Plug?

The mucus plug is thick cervical mucus that helped seal the cervix during pregnancy.

When the cervix begins changing, some or all of the mucus may come away.

This can be called a show.

Does Losing the Mucus Plug Mean Labor Starts Immediately?

No.

Labor may begin:

• shortly afterward;
• hours later;
• days later.

Some people do not notice a show.

What If There Is Blood in the Show?

A small amount of blood mixed with mucus may occur.

However, significant vaginal bleeding is different and requires prompt maternity assessment.

What Happens When the Waters Break?

The membranes containing amniotic fluid rupture.

Fluid may appear as:

• a large gush;
• a slow trickle.

The NHS specifically warns not to expect a dramatic “tidal wave”—it can simply be a trickle.

What Should You Do if Your Waters Break?

Contact your maternity service.

The NHS advises calling your midwife or doctor if you think your waters have broken.

This is important because rupture of membranes changes infection risk and labor management.

What If You Are Not Sure Whether It Is Urine or Amniotic Fluid?

This is common.

Late pregnancy can involve urinary leakage.

Because it can be difficult to distinguish urine from amniotic fluid, contact maternity care for advice rather than trying to diagnose it at home.

Can Labor Be Induced After Waters Break?

Sometimes.

The NHS notes that if the waters break and labor does not begin, induction may be recommended because infection risk increases once the membranes are no longer intact.

The exact timing depends on individual circumstances and local guidance.

What Happens at the 40-Week Antenatal Appointment?

In the NHS pathway, people having their first baby may have a routine appointment at week 40.

The appointment may include:

• blood-pressure measurement;
• fundal-height measurement;
• urine testing;
• review of fetal movement;
• discussion of symptoms;
• planning if pregnancy continues.

Prenatal schedules vary between healthcare systems.

Why Is Blood Pressure Checked?

Blood-pressure monitoring helps identify conditions such as:

• gestational hypertension;
• pre-eclampsia.

The NHS specifically notes that the 40-week visit includes assessment for pre-eclampsia.

Why Is Urine Tested?

Protein in the urine can be relevant when evaluating possible pre-eclampsia.

Urine results are interpreted alongside:

• blood pressure;
• symptoms;
• medical history.

Why Is the Bump Measured?

Fundal height gives a simple way to monitor uterine growth.

Unexpected measurements may lead to further assessment.

A fundal-height measurement does not diagnose fetal growth problems by itself.

Can Pre-Eclampsia Develop at 40 Weeks?

Yes.

Pre-eclampsia can develop late in pregnancy.

Seek urgent maternity assessment for symptoms including:

• severe headache;
• visual changes;
• severe pain under the ribs;
• sudden major swelling;
• feeling seriously unwell.

Do not wait for a scheduled visit if symptoms are concerning.

Is It Normal to Still Be Pregnant at 40 Weeks?

Yes.

The estimated due date is not a deadline.

ACOG notes that only about 1 in 20 women deliver exactly on their due date.

Many uncomplicated pregnancies continue beyond 40 weeks.

Is 40 Weeks 6 Days Still Full Term?

Yes.

Under ACOG terminology:

40 weeks 6 days is the final day of the full-term period.

At 41 weeks 0 days, pregnancy becomes late term.

What Happens at 41 Weeks?

Pregnancy from 41 weeks 0 days through 41 weeks 6 days is classified as late term.

At this stage, maternity care may involve:

• discussing induction;
• additional monitoring;
• reassessing fetal wellbeing.

Why Is Week 41 Different?

The NHS states that going from 40 to 41 weeks is usually safe, but after reaching 41 weeks some risks begin to rise gradually, although the absolute risks remain small.

These can include increased likelihood of:

• cesarean birth;
• neonatal-unit admission;
• stillbirth;
• neonatal death.

This is why care planning becomes more active.

Is Induction Recommended at 41 Weeks?

ACOG states that labor induction may be recommended if pregnancy reaches 41 weeks.

Recommendations depend on:

• maternal health;
• fetal wellbeing;
• cervical status;
• pregnancy history;
• patient preference.

Does Everyone Need Induction Exactly at 41 Weeks?

Not necessarily.

Healthcare systems vary in:

• recommended timing;
• monitoring;
• induction policies.

Your maternity team should explain:

• benefits;
• risks;
• alternatives;
• expected process.

What Is Labor Induction?

Induction means medically starting labor.

ACOG lists methods such as:

• membrane sweeping;
• cervical ripening;
• artificial rupture of membranes;
• medication that stimulates contractions.

Different methods may be used depending on cervical readiness and clinical circumstances.

What Is a Membrane Sweep?

A membrane sweep involves a healthcare professional using a gloved finger to gently separate the membranes from the lower uterus.

ACOG lists membrane sweeping as one possible method used when trying to encourage labor.

It is different from deliberately breaking the waters.

Can a Membrane Sweep Start Labor?

It can increase the likelihood of spontaneous labor in some people, but it does not guarantee labor will begin.

Possible temporary effects can include:

• cramping;
• spotting;
• irregular contractions.

Can You Safely Start Labor at Home?

There is no proven home method that reliably and safely starts labor.

The NHS specifically states that there are no proven ways to safely bring on labor at home and advises getting professional advice before trying methods promoted online.

Does Spicy Food Start Labor?

There is no reliable evidence that eating spicy food safely induces labor.

Eat foods that are comfortable for you rather than forcing foods that cause:

• heartburn;
• nausea;
• digestive discomfort.

Does Sex Start Labor?

Evidence that sex reliably initiates labor is limited.

Sex may be safe for many uncomplicated pregnancies, but it should not be treated as a guaranteed induction method.

Avoid intercourse or seek individualized guidance if you have:

• bleeding;
• ruptured membranes;
• placenta-related concerns;
• medical instructions to avoid sex.

Does Walking Start Labor?

Walking can be a comfortable form of late-pregnancy movement for many people.

However, walking does not guarantee labor will start.

Do not exhaust yourself trying to force labor.

Can Nipple Stimulation Start Labor?

Nipple stimulation can influence oxytocin release and uterine contractions, so it should not be casually used as a home-induction method without professional advice.

The NHS advises getting advice before trying labor-induction techniques.

What Can Help During Early Labor?

The NHS suggests measures such as:

• resting if labor starts at night;
• remaining upright and mobile when comfortable;
• trying different positions;
• having a warm bath or shower;
• using slow breathing;
• massage;
• eating light foods if appropriate;
• staying calm and supported.

Follow instructions from your own maternity provider.

Is It Important to Rest Before Labor?

Yes.

Labor can require substantial physical energy.

If contractions begin but are still mild and irregular, resting can help conserve energy.

Can You Eat During Early Labor?

Policies vary depending on:

• stage of labor;
• pregnancy risk;
• anesthesia plans;
• birth facility.

The NHS suggests light, healthy foods during early labor when appropriate.

Follow the advice of your maternity team.

Is Backache Common at 40 Weeks?

Yes.

Lower backache may occur because of:

• fetal position;
• pelvic pressure;
• pregnancy posture.

The NHS also notes that lower backache can be an early sign of labor.

Is Pelvic Pressure Normal?

Yes.

If the fetal head is low, you may feel:

• heaviness;
• pressure;
• difficulty walking;
• increased bladder pressure.

Sudden severe pain should be medically assessed.

Is Frequent Urination Normal?

Yes.

A low fetal head can press strongly on the bladder.

Seek medical advice if urination is accompanied by:

• burning;
• blood;
• fever;
• severe pain.

Are Braxton Hicks Normal?

Yes.

Practice contractions may be frequent by week 40.

The key difference from labor is usually their lack of progressive:

• strength;
• regularity;
• frequency.

Is Vaginal Discharge Normal?

Increased pregnancy discharge can remain normal.

It is usually:

• white or milky;
• relatively mild smelling.

Seek medical advice for discharge that is:

• foul smelling;
• green or yellow;
• painful;
• itchy;
• associated with fever.

Is Vaginal Bleeding Normal?

Significant bleeding is not something to watch at home.

Contact maternity care for any concerning late-pregnancy bleeding.

Heavy bleeding requires urgent assessment.

Is Swelling Normal?

Mild swelling may occur.

Seek medical assessment for:

• sudden substantial swelling;
• severe headache;
• visual changes;
• severe upper abdominal pain.

These may be warning signs of pre-eclampsia.

Are Sleep Problems Common?

Yes.

Sleep can be difficult because of:

• large abdomen;
• frequent urination;
• contractions;
• fetal movement;
• anticipation of labor.

Rest when possible.

Is Heartburn Still Common?

Yes.

Some people continue to experience reflux until birth.

Others notice improvement if the fetal head descends lower and upper abdominal pressure decreases.

Is Constipation Still Common?

Yes.

Hormonal effects, reduced mobility and pelvic pressure can contribute.

Support bowel health with:

• appropriate fluids;
• fiber-rich foods;
• gentle movement.

Are Hemorrhoids Common?

Yes.

Pelvic pressure and constipation can worsen hemorrhoids near the end of pregnancy.

Ask a healthcare professional about treatment if symptoms are significant.

Can Colostrum Leak at 40 Weeks?

Yes.

Breasts may leak small amounts of:

• yellow;
• clear;
• creamy;

colostrum.

Not leaking is also normal.

It does not predict future milk supply.

Is GBS Still Important at 40 Weeks?

Yes.

If your GBS screening result was positive, make sure the maternity team knows.

Antibiotics are generally administered during labor when indicated.

If you do not know your GBS status, tell the maternity team when labor begins or waters break.

Is RSV Vaccination Still Possible?

Under NHS guidance, RSV vaccination can still be given later if needed, right up until labor begins.

Vaccination recommendations vary by country and season.

Follow your local maternal-immunization program.

Is Exercise Still Safe at 40 Weeks?

For many uncomplicated pregnancies, gentle activity remains appropriate.

The NHS recommends listening to your body and remaining active within comfort.

Possible activity can include:

• gentle walking;
• mobility exercises.

Stop and seek advice if you develop:

• bleeding;
• dizziness;
• severe pain;
• fluid leakage;
• concerning contractions.

Are Pelvic Floor Exercises Still Useful?

Yes.

Pelvic-floor exercises continue to support:

• bladder control;
• pelvic support;
• postpartum recovery.

They can generally be resumed postpartum when medically appropriate.

Do You Need Extra Calories?

There is no need to “eat for two.”

The NHS estimates that during the third trimester, approximately 200 additional calories per day may be appropriate under UK guidance.

Individual requirements vary.

Should the Hospital Bag Be Ready?

Yes.

By week 40, everything needed for birth should ideally be easy to access.

Possible items include:

• maternity records;
• identification;
• birth plan;
• comfortable clothing;
• toiletries;
• newborn clothing;
• postpartum supplies;
• phone charger;
• routine medications.

Should the Car Seat Be Ready?

Yes.

If your baby will travel by car, have a properly fitted newborn car seat ready.

Follow:

• manufacturer instructions;
• local child-restraint laws.

Should You Know the Route to the Hospital?

Yes.

Have:

• primary transport;
• backup transport;
• maternity phone number;
• birth-partner contact information;
• childcare arrangements if relevant.

Should You Review the Birth Plan Again?

Yes.

But keep it flexible.

Labor can change quickly.

Your preferences may include:

• pain relief;
• mobility;
• birth support;
• skin-to-skin contact;
• newborn feeding;
• cesarean birth if medically required.

Should You Know About Newborn Screening?

Yes.

The NHS notes that screening tests are offered soon after birth and can help identify conditions where early treatment may be beneficial.

Programs vary by country and may include:

• blood-spot screening;
• hearing testing;
• newborn physical examination.

Is Postpartum Contraception Worth Planning Now?

Yes.

Fertility can return sooner than expected after childbirth.

Discuss contraception before or soon after birth if you want to avoid another pregnancy immediately.

Is Mental Health Important While Waiting for Labor?

Yes.

Waiting beyond the due date can be emotionally challenging.

You may feel:

• excited;
• impatient;
• anxious;
• frustrated.

The NHS encourages discussing persistent anxiety or low mood with your doctor or midwife.

When Should You Seek Medical Help at 40 Weeks?

Contact maternity care promptly if:

• fetal movement becomes reduced or stops;
• you think your waters have broken;
• contractions become regular and increasingly painful;
• you have vaginal bleeding;
• you develop severe headache;
• you have visual changes;
• swelling becomes suddenly severe;
• you develop severe pain under the ribs;
• you have severe abdominal pain;
• you develop chest pain;
• you have sudden severe breathlessness;
• you develop high fever;
• you feel something is seriously wrong.

Being at your due date does not mean concerning symptoms should be watched at home without professional advice.

Pregnancy Week 40 FAQs

Is 40 weeks full term?

Yes. ACOG defines full term as 39 weeks 0 days through 40 weeks 6 days.

Is 40 weeks the exact due date?

Week 40 contains the estimated due date, but pregnancy dating is an estimate. Only around 1 in 20 women give birth on their exact due date.

How big is the baby at 40 weeks?

The NHS estimates the fetus at around 51.2 cm from head to heel, approximately the size of a pumpkin.

Is the baby still developing?

Yes. Late-stage brain, lung and nervous-system maturation continues until birth.

Is lanugo mostly gone?

Yes. MedlinePlus states that by weeks 38–40, lanugo is generally gone except around the shoulders and upper arms.

Can fingernails extend beyond the fingertips?

Yes. This can occur during weeks 38–40.

Is scalp hair thicker?

Yes. MedlinePlus notes that scalp hair becomes thicker and coarser during weeks 38–40.

Should fetal movement continue at 40 weeks?

Yes. NHS guidance specifically states that movements should continue in the usual pattern and should not slow or stop.

Is it normal not to be in labor at 40 weeks?

Yes. The due date is an estimate, and many healthy pregnancies continue past it.

What happens at the 40-week appointment?

Blood pressure, bump size and urine may be checked, particularly in a first pregnancy, while clinicians also assess for conditions such as pre-eclampsia.

Are Braxton Hicks normal?

Yes. Practice contractions can be frequent at week 40.

When should you call for contractions?

The NHS suggests contacting maternity care when contractions last around 60 seconds and occur about every 5 minutes, although your own maternity unit’s instructions should take priority.

What if waters break?

Contact your maternity service. Fluid may be a gush or just a trickle.

Can you safely induce labor at home?

There are no proven safe home methods for reliably starting labor. Speak with your maternity professional before attempting induction techniques.

Is 41 weeks still full term?

No. ACOG classifies 41 weeks 0 days through 41 weeks 6 days as late term.

Can induction be recommended at 41 weeks?

Yes. ACOG notes that induction may be recommended when pregnancy reaches 41 weeks.

What Comes Next?

If pregnancy continues into Pregnancy Week 41, it enters the late-term period.

ACOG defines:

• 40+6: final day of full term
• 41+0 to 41+6: late term
• 42+0 onward: postterm.

At 41 weeks, prenatal care may shift toward:

• discussing induction;
• monitoring fetal wellbeing;
• reviewing fetal movement;
• checking maternal wellbeing;
• planning delivery.

The NHS notes that while going from 40 to 41 weeks is usually safe, risks begin to rise gradually after 41 weeks, which is why additional planning becomes important.

Previous: Pregnancy Week 39
Next: Pregnancy Week 41
Tool: Pregnancy Due Date Calculator

Medical References

This article is based on current information from established medical and public-health organizations, including:

• NHS — 40 Weeks Pregnant
• NHS — 41 Weeks Pregnant
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) — Definition of Term Pregnancy
• ACOG — How Your Fetus Grows During Pregnancy
• ACOG — When Pregnancy Goes Past Your Due Date
• MedlinePlus — Fetal Development

Editorial & Medical Information

Last content review: October 2026

This page provides general educational pregnancy information only. It does not diagnose labor, ruptured membranes, reduced fetal movement, pre-eclampsia or other pregnancy complications; determine whether induction is appropriate; prescribe treatment; or replace individualized maternity care.

A due date is an estimate. Pregnancy management after the due date, induction schedules and monitoring practices vary according to the pregnancy and healthcare system.

Contact a qualified maternity healthcare professional for concerns about fetal movement, contractions, bleeding, fluid leakage, severe headache, vision changes, swelling, severe pain, fever, breathing difficulty or any other concerning symptom.

Conclusion

Pregnancy week 40 is the estimated due-date milestone, but it is not an expiration date. ACOG states that pregnancy averages about 40 weeks and only around 1 in 20 women deliver on their exact estimated due date.

Under ACOG terminology, the pregnancy remains full term through 40 weeks 6 days. It does not become late term until 41 weeks 0 days.

The NHS estimates the fetus at around 51.2 cm from head to heel, approximately the size of a pumpkin. Despite very limited space, movement should continue in the baby’s usual pattern; a meaningful reduction or stopping of movement requires prompt maternity assessment.

The 40-week antenatal appointment may include blood-pressure, urine and bump-size checks, with continued attention to pre-eclampsia and fetal wellbeing. Braxton Hicks contractions may be frequent, while true labor contractions become progressively painful and regular.

There are also no proven safe home methods for reliably starting labor, so avoid relying on internet remedies such as spicy food or unmonitored stimulation techniques.

If pregnancy continues to week 41, care usually becomes more focused on the timing of birth. ACOG notes that induction may be recommended at 41 weeks, while NHS guidance explains that risks gradually begin to rise after this point.

Continue monitoring fetal movement, keep your maternity contact information immediately available and seek prompt professional assessment for reduced movement, significant bleeding, suspected waters breaking, severe headache with visual changes, sudden major swelling or other concerning symptoms.