Going Over Your Due Date

Pregnancy is often described as a 40-week journey, but not all babies arrive exactly on their due date. In fact, only about 5% of babies are born on that predicted date, with many arriving a week or two earlier or later. When pregnancy extends beyond 40 weeks, it’s referred to as “post-date” or “post-term.” For expecting parents, going over your due date can feel like an endless waiting game, but understanding what it means to be post-dates, the associated risks, and how to stay busy while waiting can help alleviate some of the stress.

What Does It Mean to Be Post-Dates?

A pregnancy is considered “post-date” when it exceeds 40 weeks, with 42 weeks being the maximum limit before doctors usually intervene. While every pregnancy is different, it’s common for first-time parents to go past their due dates, and there’s typically no cause for immediate concern. A “post-term” pregnancy refers to a pregnancy that extends beyond 42 weeks. Both terms highlight that the baby has chosen to stay a little longer than expected in the womb.

It’s essential to remember that due dates are estimates. They’re typically based on the first day of your last menstrual cycle or from early ultrasound measurements, but they aren’t always precise. In many cases, what’s considered a “post-date” pregnancy may simply be a miscalculation of the baby’s actual due date. However, once your pregnancy hits the 41-week mark, your doctor or midwife will monitor you and your baby more closely to ensure everything remains healthy if you’re going over your due date.

What Risks Are Associated with Going over your Due Date?

While most post-dated pregnancies progress smoothly, there are a few risks to be aware of. These include:

1. Placental Aging: As the pregnancy continues beyond 40 weeks, the placenta can start to age, meaning it may not function as efficiently as it did earlier in the pregnancy. This can impact the amount of oxygen and nutrients the baby receives.
2. Decreased Amniotic Fluid: After the due date, the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby may begin to decrease, which can pose risks to the baby’s well-being and increase the chance of umbilical cord compression.
3. Macrosomia (Large Baby): Babies born post-term may grow larger than average, leading to potential complications during vaginal delivery, such as shoulder dystocia (when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck during birth).
4. Meconium Aspiration: Babies who remain in the womb longer are at higher risk of passing their first bowel movement (meconium) before birth. If the baby inhales meconium-stained amniotic fluid, it can cause respiratory issues at birth.
5. Stillbirth (Rare): While stillbirth risk slightly increases in post-term pregnancies, it remains rare, especially with close monitoring from healthcare providers.

Due to these risks, healthcare providers will typically recommend increased surveillance, such as non-stress tests, biophysical profiles, or ultrasounds, starting at 41 weeks. These tests help ensure the baby is still thriving and determine the best time for intervention if necessary.

*If you are considering an induction for reaching or passing your due date, whether due to any of the risks listed above or for any other reason, we highly encourage you to explore this link to Evidence-Based Birth’s research articles and podcasts, as it offers the most up-to-date research and insights on this topic.

How to Stay Occupied While Waiting for Labor to Begin

Going over your due date can feel frustrating, especially as excitement mounts to meet your baby. Staying relaxed and keeping busy can help pass the time more pleasantly. Here are a few ideas:

1. Prepare for Baby’s Arrival: Take this extra time to double-check your hospital bag, finalize any last-minute nursery details, and stock up on essential baby items. You could also use the time to prepare frozen meals for when the baby arrives.
2. Self-Care: Use these last few days or weeks for pampering and self-care. Get a prenatal massage, take warm (but not too hot) baths, or meditate. Staying calm and focused on your well-being can help make the waiting period less stressful.
3. Stay Active: Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help reduce stress, keep your body moving, and may even help prepare your body for labor.
4. Connect with Loved Ones: Spend time with friends and family, either in person or virtually. These moments of social connection can help keep your mind off the waiting.
5. Focus on Rest: Try to get as much sleep as possible. Once your baby arrives, sleep may be more challenging to come by, so rest up now!

Safe Options for Starting Labor

If you reach 41 or 42 weeks and are eager to meet your baby, there are safe ways to potentially encourage labor. Always consult your healthcare provider before attempting any of these methods:

1. Membrane Sweeping: Your doctor or midwife can perform a membrane sweep during a cervical exam. This process separates the amniotic sac from the cervix, which may trigger the release of hormones that induce labor.
2. Nipple Stimulation: Stimulating your nipples can cause the release of oxytocin, a hormone that can help start contractions. You can do this manually or by using a breast pump.
3. Sex: Sexual intercourse may help induce labor, especially if your body is already close to labor. Semen contains prostaglandins, which can help soften and ripen the cervix.
4. Acupuncture or Acupressure: Some women find that these holistic practices help trigger contractions and promote relaxation.
5. Castor Oil (With Caution): Drinking castor oil is a traditional method believed to stimulate the bowels and uterus, potentially starting contractions. However, it can cause diarrhea and dehydration, so it should only be used under medical guidance.
6. Medical Induction: If natural methods don’t work and your pregnancy continues to progress, your healthcare provider may recommend medical induction. This involves medications like Pitocin or procedures to encourage contractions and help the cervix dilate.

Going over your due date can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, but with the right information and support, you can navigate this period confidently. Stay patient, focus on your health, and always keep open communication with your healthcare provider. Whether your baby comes on their own time or with a little help, you’ll soon meet the newest member of your family!