Weeks 39 to 41GuidelineWith your doctor
Past 40 weeks? Plan induction at 41
WHO advises inducing labour once you reach 41 weeks.
Why It Matters (Clinical Guidance)
- WHO recommends induction at 41 weeks, and not routinely before that in a healthy pregnancy.
- Your doctor may advise it earlier for high blood pressure, diabetes or the baby's growth.
- Keep counting the baby's movements every day. Fewer movements means hospital now.
Primary Citation: WHO recommendations on maternal health (2nd edition)
Last checked: October 2026 • Medical review panel forming