April 2, Think 42

What's the rush to give birth on your due date? The due date is an average. While some women labor at 39 weeks, many more go all the way to 41 or 42 weeks. It gets a bit hard to sleep at night. You may have aches and pains as you go on. However, if you can keep your spirits up and think of 42 as the finish line instead of 40, it can really reset your attitude in the last lap.

Induction before 42 weeks is rarely a necessity, however it is very popular with physicians. You will hear about placental aging, which happens at different rates in each woman. Most of the reading indicates that the placenta typically ages just a bit more at 41 weeks, and more significantly AFTER 42 weeks. The increase is small, while risks associated with induction (which often leads to c-section) are much higher.

You might be warned about a big baby/macrosomia. It's unlikely to be bigger than you can handle. Cut out the sweets if you are worried - stick to whole wheat bread and fruit. It's better for you both anyway!

You might be warned of low amniotic fluid/oligohydramnios. Be suspicious of this if they try to whisk you away directly to the hospital. Where's the fire? Get a detailed test. Ask HOW LOW? Ask what the parameters are for your week of pregnancy, and see how close you are to them. Realize the test is imperfect. If it is very low, an induction might be a reasonable response. Take the info home and think about it overnight and do your research. Sometimes the baby really needs that extra few days safe inside you before sending out its labor signals.

Think 42! It will keep you sane the last few days when you really just want that baby in your arms and when the "where is the baby" phone calls are non-stop. Make sure your OB or midwife knows that you are comfortable with 42. Let them know that unless it is an obvious medical emergency, inductions discussions should not even begin until 41 or later. Most experienced OBs know this is safe, but are under external pressure to act otherwise. Don't let malpractice corporations run your birth - go with the facts and intuitions of YOUR pregnancy.

Articles:
Is 42 too long?
Induce? Give me a good reason.