42 Weeks Pregnant
At 42 weeks pregnant, your baby is about the size of a watermelon.
- Length
- 52 cm (20.5 in)
- Weight
- 3.6 kg (7 lb 15 oz)
- Trimester
- Third
- Month
- Month 9
- Weeks to go
- 2 past due
Size of a watermelon
Your baby at 42 weeks
At 42 weeks a pregnancy is "post term." Most providers recommend induction before or around this point because the placenta may become less efficient.
Your body at 42 weeks
You will likely have close monitoring and a plan for delivery. Your baby will be here very soon!
Common symptoms at 42 weeks pregnant
- Pelvic pressure
- Fatigue
- Contractions
Every pregnancy is different. Having none of these symptoms is normal too.
Tips for week 42
- Follow your provider's plan for induction and monitoring.
- Report any change in movements immediately.
- Make sure your support person is ready to go.
Your week 42 checklist
- Follow your induction plan
- Report any change in movements
- Have your support person ready
Helpful at 42 weeks
42 Weeks Pregnant: your questions answered
How big is a baby at 42 weeks pregnant?
At 42 weeks your baby is about the size of a watermelon: around 52 cm (20.5 in) long and weighing about 3.6 kg (7 lb 15 oz). Every baby grows at their own pace.
How many months is 42 weeks pregnant?
42 weeks pregnant is month 9 of your pregnancy, in the third trimester. You are 2 weeks past your due date.
Why is induction offered at 42 weeks?
After 42 weeks the placenta may work less well, and the risk of complications rises. Most providers recommend induction at or before this point.
Sources
This guide is written from public guidance by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the NHS, the CDC and the World Health Organization. Baby sizes are averages; your baby may be bigger or smaller and still perfectly healthy.
General information only, not medical advice.
History of updates
- : Added a weekly checklist and common questions.
- : Matched fruit, length and weight to the Prego app.
- : Published.