Why Are 39 Weeks So Crucial in Pregnancy?

The pregnancy journey is one of the most beautiful journeys one woman can experience. But there are several questions in a woman’s mind during that time. One of the major questions is why women have to wait for 39 weeks. Earlier, it was considered safe to deliver around 37 weeks, however, more and more evidence is now coming forth that babies born earlier could be missing out on some critical development. The vital organs, namely the brain, lungs, and liver, all grow most in the last weeks; the brain grows 50% in this period alone. Even as per research it is mentioned that babies born before 39 pregnancy weeks face more health complications and require intensive care. 

Are you willing to know more? Keep reading to explore why waiting until 39 weeks is vital for both mother and baby and how it ensures a healthy start to life!

The Benefits of Waiting: Why 39 Weeks Matters for Your Baby’s Health

Reaching 39 weeks of pregnancy is more than timing; it is about making sure your baby gets off to the best possible start in life. These last weeks are critical for organ development, ensuring that when your baby is born, he or she is entirely ready to thrive outside your womb. You can use a week-by-week calculator to track your baby’s development inside your womb. Here's why waiting until 39 weeks matters:

Optimal Organ Development

Vital organs, such as the brain, lungs, and liver, complete their final and most important stages of development in the last few weeks of pregnancy. By 39 weeks, the baby's brain grows to nearly 50% of its full functional capacity, enormously reducing the risk of cognitive and neurological disorders later in life. The lungs also achieve full functionality, preparing the baby to breathe independently, while the liver enhances its ability to process bilirubin and regulate metabolism, reducing the chances of jaundice and other complications.

Reduced Health Complications

Babies born after 39 weeks have a lower risk of developing health issues such as breathing problems, jaundice, or breastfeeding difficulties. They are also less likely to require neonatal intensive care (NICU) due to a more robust immune system and fully developed organs. Furthermore, waiting until full term can minimize the baby's susceptibility to infections and long-term health challenges. Use a pregnancy calculator to monitor your baby’s health and progress.

Healthy Birth Weight

Babies born after 39 weeks achieve a healthier birth weight and this plays a critical role in their overall survival and growth. A proper birth weight helps them regulate body temperature effectively, reducing the risk of conditions such as hypothermia which is a life-threatening issue in underweight newborns.

Enhanced Feeding and Learning Abilities

By 39 weeks, babies develop stronger suckling and swallowing reflexes which makes feeding easier and more efficient. It also contributes to better weight gain and reduces the risk of feeding-related complications. In addition, babies born at full term have a lower likelihood of facing long-term developmental delays or learning difficulties, as their neurological systems are better prepared for life outside the womb.

Lower Risk of Surgical Interventions

Deliveries before 39 weeks increase the chances of complications that lead to cesarean sections. Waiting until full term allows for a smoother labor process plus it reduces the risk of surgical delivery and its associated risks, such as infection, excessive bleeding, and a prolonged recovery period for the mother.

Conclusion: Give Your Baby the Best Start in Life

Waiting until 39 weeks is more than just a timeline; it's a gift of health, strength, and development for your baby. Allowing your baby to reach full term in the womb ensures better physical and cognitive development, preparing them to thrive after birth.

Cryoviva Life Sciences supports parents at every step of pregnancy and even afterward. Secure your baby's future with Cryoviva's advanced stem cell and cord tissue banking services. Take the first step toward giving your little one a lifetime of health benefits. Contact Cryoviva today!