7 things to think about when you go past your due date
Going past your due date is hard. You’ve spent 9 looking months waiting to meet your baby (not to mention you are feeling pretty darn uncomfortable these days), and it can feel downright discouraging to watch your due date come and go, with no baby in your arms.
But we are here to tell you that it really will be ok!
Here are some things to keep in mind during these final days of your pregnancy:
1. The baby will come
I know this sounds obvious. But really. You won’t be pregnant forever. And when you look back at this period in your life, it will seem like a blip in time. Your baby is coming. Soon. (Maybe even tonight!)
2. There’s probably a reason you haven’t gone into labor yet
We are not exactly sure what triggers labor, but we think it has a lot to do with the baby sending your body a signal that she is ready. If your baby hasn’t come yet, there’s probably a reason—she is after all, a very smart baby 
She may just need to stay put and grow for a few more days. Trust that your baby—and your body—know exactly what they are doing.
3. You’re not alone
The average first time mom gives birth at 41 weeks and 1 day. So if you’re late, you’re actually right on track!
4. Keep going to those prenatal appointments
Your doctor or midwife will probably have you start coming in a little more frequently, to make sure you and the baby are doing well. You may have an extra ultrasound or some continuos monitoring to check on your little guy. Try to enjoy the extra attention—prenatal visits will soon be a thing of the past!
5. Take care of yourself
Remember how I said you might be going into labor tonight? Yeah, you really might be. So make sure you are preparing your body for the marathon it is about to run. Stay hydrated, eat nutritiously and rest so that when the big moment arrives, you are energized and ready.
6. Pamper yourself
Treat yourself to a manicure or a prenatal massage. Go out for a fancy lunch. Or check out some more ideas here. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself like the mama-goddess that you are!
7. Do a little soul-searching
The emotional-physical connection of birth is huge. Sometimes, women have a worry or concern that is causing them a fair amount of stress, which can at times delay birth. Is there anything on your mind? See if you can pinpoint what’s causing you stress, and then try to alleviate the worry—talk to your partner, provider or even a therapist, or try some relaxation exercises to put yourself into a more zen state of mind.
To learn more information from the U.S. Government about this subject, click here: Pregnancy and birth: When your baby’s due date has passed – InformedHealth.org – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
Navigating the Course of an Extended Pregnancy: What to Do When It’s Past Your Due Date
Pregnancy is a journey of excitement, anticipation, and at times, impatience. The closer you inch towards your due date, the more eager you become for the arrival of your little one. But what happens when the due date comes and goes, and your baby still hasn’t made an appearance? This can result in a mix of emotions – from anxiety to frustration. Here, we explore the concept of an overdue pregnancy, how to cope with it, and when to reach out to your healthcare provider.
Understanding Overdue Pregnancy
A normal full-term pregnancy typically lasts between 39 and 41 weeks. If your baby decides to extend their stay beyond 40 weeks or 280 days, your pregnancy is then classified as “overdue” or “post-term.” Although the term “overdue” may sound alarming, it’s important to remember that the length of pregnancy can vary significantly. Many doctors even wait till around the 42-week mark before inducing labor. However, this knowledge doesn’t necessarily provide comfort to an expectant mother who is dealing with the physical discomfort and emotional stress of late pregnancy.
Coping with an Overdue Pregnancy: Keeping Yourself Occupied
When your baby is overdue, it’s essential to find ways to distract yourself and stay comfortable during the final stretch of your pregnancy. Here are some strategies to help you get through this period:
Engage in Activities That You Enjoy
To help keep your mind off your overdue pregnancy, consider immersing yourself in activities that you enjoy. Here are a few suggestions:
- Catch up on your favorite TV series or movies
- Reconnect with an old friend over a phone or video call
- Experiment with a new recipe or bake some sweet treats
- Indulge in a book you’ve been meaning to read
- Embark on a walk in your local park
- Create a playlist of your favorite tunes
- Delve into a new hobby or revisit a cherished one
Prepare for Your Baby’s Arrival
Having a baby is a life-changing event. Use this extra time to ensure that you’re as prepared as possible for your baby’s arrival. Here are some ways you can prep:
- Finalize your list of baby names
- Learn how to time contractions
- Read up on newborn care
- Join online parenting support groups
- Prepare your home for the baby – assemble the crib, organize baby clothes, and stock up on essentials like diapers and wipes
- Install the car seat and have it checked by a certified technician
- Pack your hospital bag
Pamper Yourself
The last few days of an overdue pregnancy are the perfect time to indulge in some self-care. Here are some ways you can pamper yourself:
- Get a pregnancy massage
- Enjoy a relaxing bubble bath
- Treat yourself to a new book or a comfy pair of slippers
- Schedule a beauty treatment – a facial, manicure, or pedicure
Natural Ways to Induce Labor
If you’re finding the wait increasingly difficult, there are a few natural methods that are believed to help initiate labor, such as:
- Eating spicy food
- Engaging in approved physical activities
- Going for a walk
- Dancing to your favorite tunes
- Having sex
Before trying any of these methods, do consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you and your baby.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Although due dates are merely an estimate, it’s crucial to keep your healthcare provider informed about your overdue pregnancy. Reach out to your doctor if you experience any concerning pregnancy signs or symptoms, such as:
- Contractions
- A decrease in the baby’s movements
- A sudden gush of fluid
- Spotting or bleeding
- A sudden or severe headache
- Pain
Final Thoughts
An overdue pregnancy can be a test of patience. However, it’s paramount to stay calm and comfortable during this period. Indulging in self-care, preparing for your baby’s arrival, and staying busy can help you navigate this phase. Remember, your baby will arrive when they’re ready, and in the meantime, your job is to take care of yourself and prepare for the beautiful journey of parenthood that lies ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What does it mean if I go past my due date?
A1: Going past your due date means that your pregnancy has extended beyond the typical duration of 40 weeks or 280 days. It’s referred to as an “overdue” or “post-term” pregnancy. While it can be concerning, it’s essential to remember that the length of pregnancy can vary, and many healthcare providers wait until around the 42-week mark before considering induction.
Q2: Why hasn’t my baby arrived yet?
A2: The exact triggers for labor onset are still not fully understood, but it’s believed to involve signals from the baby indicating readiness. If your baby hasn’t arrived by your due date, there may be various reasons. Trust that your baby and your body know what they’re doing, and try to remain patient.
Q3: Is it common to go past your due date?
A3: Yes, it’s quite common for first-time moms to give birth after their due date. The average first-time mom gives birth at 41 weeks and 1 day, so if you’re late, you’re actually right on track. However, it’s always essential to keep in touch with your healthcare provider and attend regular prenatal appointments for monitoring.
Q4: What should I do during these final days of pregnancy?
A4: During the final days of pregnancy, it’s crucial to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Stay hydrated, eat nutritious meals, and get plenty of rest. Engage in activities you enjoy, pamper yourself with self-care treatments, and consider doing some soul-searching to alleviate any stress or worries you may have.
Q5: Are there any natural ways to induce labor?
A5: While there are anecdotal methods believed to help initiate labor naturally, such as eating spicy food, engaging in physical activities, going for walks, dancing, or having sex, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before trying any of these methods to ensure they’re safe for you and your baby.
Q6: When should I contact my healthcare provider if I go past my due date?
A6: It’s essential to keep your healthcare provider informed about your overdue pregnancy. Contact them if you experience any concerning signs or symptoms, such as contractions, a decrease in your baby’s movements, spotting or bleeding, a sudden gush of fluid, severe headache, or pain.
Q7: What should I expect during prenatal appointments if I go past my due date?
A7: Your healthcare provider may schedule more frequent prenatal appointments to monitor you and your baby closely. This may include additional ultrasounds or continuous monitoring to ensure both of you are doing well. Use these appointments as an opportunity to ask any questions or address any concerns you may have.
Q8: How can I cope emotionally with going past my due date?
A8: Coping emotionally with an overdue pregnancy can be challenging, but it’s essential to stay positive and focus on self-care. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family, engage in relaxation techniques, and seek professional support if needed. Remember that your baby will arrive when they’re ready, and in the meantime, take this time to prepare for the beautiful journey of parenthood ahead.
