Babies need at least 39 weeks to grow before they are born. Between 37 and 39 weeks, the baby goes through critical development of the brain, lungs, and liver. Your baby's brain at 35 weeks weighs only 2/3 of what it will weigh at 39 to 40 weeks. Elective delivery prior to 39 weeks increases the mom's risk of postpartum depression, stronger and more frequent contractions, and the need for a cesarean delivery.
