The probable date of delivery is calculated taking into account certain parameters, such as the date of the last period or taking into account the development of the placenta and the fetus according to the first ultrasounds. This is an estimate, since it is usual that this calculation is not fulfilled.
The pregnancy is considered to have reached term at week 37, but if the pregnancy lasts until week 41 it is known as a late-term pregnancy. When it reaches week 42 we talk about a post-term or prolonged pregnancy.
Although this prolongation of gestation can entail some risks for the baby and the mother, as well as complications in childbirth, the truth is that the majority of pregnancies past term end without any problem. But in any case, those unexpected extra weeks in a state of good hope can be uncomfortable for the mother.
It is difficult to clarify the reasons why a pregnancy is prolonged, although there are certain circumstances in which it is more common. For example, for genetic reasons, family history, first pregnancy or irregular menstruation.
They are also more common when the expected baby is a boy, as well as in the case of overweight or obese mothers. Also, if you’ve had a previous postterm pregnancy, chances are you’ll have another.
From the 38th week of pregnancy you should go for fetal monitoring every three or four days. This is a test through which a device is placed in the mother’s belly connected to a computer to check fetal well-being, controlling its heart rate and oxygen levels.
As the wait lengthens, fetal monitoring will become more common, in order to check that your baby is okay. Other tests that are carried out in past term pregnancies are Doppler flowometry, with which the state of the placenta and umbilical cord is checked; an amnioscopy to monitor the quality and quantity of amniotic fluid and regular ultrasounds.
This prolongation of the pregnancy means that the mother will have to live longer with discomforts such as tiredness, fatigue, swollen legs and feet, cramps, back pain, pressure in the pelvic area, difficulty sleeping and frequent need to urinate. Added to this is anxiety and uncertainty about the arrival of the baby.
To better cope with it, do not hesitate to discuss all your doubts with the doctor and talk about how you feel with your loved ones. You can take the opportunity to review that everything is ready to receive your baby: the hospital bag, her room, her clean clothes, the car seat, etc. It’s also a good idea to read books on motherhood to keep yourself distracted.
Finally, if your doctor allows it, doing moderate physical exercise, going for a walk and having sex can make the wait more enjoyable and promote the onset of labor. If necessary, the doctor will decide to induce labor or schedule a cesarean section.
