So, you’ve hit that magical due date, the one you’ve had circled on the calendar for months, and yet… nothing! The nursery is ready, your hospital bag is packed, and still, no baby. If you’re in this situation, you’re definitely not alone. ‘Postdates pregnancy’, where your pregnancy goes beyond the expected 40 weeks, happens more often than you might think. If one study is to be believed, that’s 81% of the time for first timers!
But don’t panic! Pregnancy Pal is here to delve into what it means to have a pregnancy go past the due date and the changes you can expect on your birth plan as a result…
What Is a Postdates Pregnancy?
A full-term pregnancy is considered to be anywhere between 37 and 42 weeks. However, when you hit 40 weeks and your little one hasn’t made their appearance, it’s what’s known as a postdates pregnancy. First-time mums are especially likely to experience this, so if this is your first baby, it’s not unusual for things to take a bit longer.
How Accurate is the Due Date Anyway?
Let’s be real—due dates aren’t always spot on. In fact, they’re more of a guess than a precise prediction. Usually, your due date is calculated based on the date of your last period or from the results of your early scans. But not many babies actually arrive on that specific date! So, if your baby doesn’t arrive “on time,” it’s really no reason to worry.
Your due date does hold some emotional weight though, doesn’t it? You’ve probably told family and friends, planned your maternity leave, and maybe even started to feel a little anxious or impatient as the day approaches. But remember, it’s perfectly normal for babies to take their time, especially in a first pregnancy.
Why Does It Matter If My Baby Is Late?
Most babies born after 40 weeks are completely healthy. However, once you pass the 41-week mark, certain risks do start to increase. This can include a slightly higher chance of complications during labour or delivery. Your midwife will likely recommend a bit of extra monitoring to make sure everything is still going smoothly.
For example, one potential issue is meconium aspiration. Meconium is the baby’s first poo, and in postdates pregnancies, babies are more likely to release it into the amniotic fluid. If the baby breathes it in during labour, it could cause breathing problems, though in most cases, babies recover quickly. While this might sound worrying, keep in mind that these risks are still quite low overall. It’s just a matter of being a little more cautious once you’re past 40 weeks.
What Can I Expect After 40 Weeks?
If your pregnancy goes beyond your due date, your midwife might suggest keeping a closer eye on things. This could mean keeping track of how often your baby is moving or going in for a few extra tests. These tests might include monitoring your baby’s heart rate or an ultrasound to check on things like amniotic fluid levels, your baby’s movements, and growth.
If you reach 42 weeks and there are still no signs of labour, induction might be suggested. There are a few ways to induce labour, from using synthetic hormones like oxytocin to encourage contractions, to breaking your waters. Your midwife will walk you through your options and what might be best for you.
Should You Wait or Induce Labour?
One big decision you might face is whether to go for an induction or simply wait for labour to start naturally. This decision can be a tough one because both options have pros and cons. Inducing labour can help avoid potential risks that come with a longer pregnancy, but it also increases the chance of interventions like forceps, vacuum-assisted birth, or even a caesarean section.
On the other hand, if both you and your baby are doing well, waiting for labour to start naturally might give you the best chance for an uncomplicated birth. During this time, your midwife will continue to monitor you closely to ensure your baby is still thriving. It’s all about weighing the benefits and risks and discussing your options with your healthcare team.
What About Natural Methods to Encourage Labour?
If the idea of induction feels too medical for you, there are a few natural methods that some women try to get labour going. One option your midwife might offer is called a stretch and sweep, where they stretch your cervix and sweep the membranes to help encourage things to progress.
Other natural methods can include acupuncture, herbal remedies, or even old wives’ tales like taking castor oil or stimulating your nipples. While there’s not a huge amount of scientific evidence on how well these methods work, some women swear by them. However, it’s always best to talk with your midwife before trying anything on your own.
Can I Still Have a Home Birth If My Pregnancy Goes Over 40 Weeks?
One concern many women have is whether a postdates pregnancy will affect their birth plan, particularly if they’ve been hoping for a home birth. The good news is that going past 40 weeks doesn’t automatically mean you can’t have a home birth. However, if you need to be induced, and the induction process involves synthetic hormones or other medical interventions, this may need to take place in a hospital, which could limit your options.
If you’re having a home birth and your midwife notices meconium in the amniotic fluid, they might suggest transferring to a hospital just to be safe. But again, every pregnancy is different, and your midwife will guide you through what’s best for you and your baby.
Does Age Play a Role in Postdates Pregnancies?
If you’re over 40, your pregnancy might be managed a bit differently, even if you feel fit and healthy. While stillbirth is rare in any pregnancy, the risk does increase slightly with age. Because of this, some hospitals and midwives may start considering you “postdates” a little earlier, around 39 weeks, and might suggest a different plan for monitoring or inducing labour. But as always, it’s best to talk through your personal situation with your midwife and decide on a plan that works for you.
Final Thoughts: Patience Is Key!
The wait for your baby’s arrival can feel like an eternity, especially if you go past your due date. But remember, babies have their own timelines, and postdates pregnancies are more common than you might think. Whether you decide to wait it out or go for an induction, staying informed and working with your midwife to make the best decision for you and your baby is what’s most important.
So, try to relax (easier said than done, I know), take care of yourself, and enjoy those last few moments before your new bundle of joy arrives. Every extra day is just more time for them to get ready for the big debut!
