⏳ Postdate Pregnancy – When Pregnancy Goes Beyond the Due Date
Most pregnancies end between 37–40 weeks. However, about 5–10% of women remain pregnant beyond 42 weeks — what we call post-term pregnancy.
⚠️ Why it matters:
Placental function can decline after 41–42 weeks.
Amniotic fluid volume decreases, raising the risk of cord compression.
The risk of stillbirth increases gradually after 41 weeks (from around 1–2 per 1,000 at 40 weeks to 2–3 per 1,000 after 42 weeks).
Larger baby size raises the chance of shoulder dystocia and cesarean delivery.
📌 Guidelines (ACOG / NICE / RCOG):
40 weeks onward:
Weekly or bi-weekly monitoring with ultrasound (AFI), Doppler if indicated, and non-stress tests (CTG).
Induction of labor:
Recommended at 41+0 to 42+0 weeks, as induction at this stage reduces the risk of stillbirth without significantly increasing cesarean rates.
Expectant management:
Can be considered if monitoring is reassuring, but not beyond 42 weeks.
📊 Evidence:
Studies show that induction at 41 weeks lowers perinatal mortality and morbidity compared with waiting longer.
Cesarean delivery rates are not significantly higher with induction compared to waiting for spontaneous labor.
👩⚕️ Message for mothers:
It’s normal to go a little past your due date — but don’t skip monitoring.
If your pregnancy reaches 41 weeks, talk to your doctor about induction.
Every day after 41 weeks needs close observation to ensure baby’s safety.
🌸 Pregnancy is a journey full of patience and hope, but making decisions at the right time is what keeps both mother and baby safe.
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