We are in extra time

If you are reading this page, you have not yet given birth. You are not alone: some women give birth before the estimated date and others afterwards. An incorrectly calculated due date may contribute. If you are sure of the first day of your last period and the baby's measurements have agreed with it throughout pregnancy, your baby really is overdue. Remember, however, that the due date is an estimate and delivery may be late, particularly in a first pregnancy.

Your doctor may now wish to see you more often, perhaps every 3 days. At each visit, ultrasound will assess movements and the amount of amniotic fluid, followed by a non-stress test.

Although babies generally have no problems at this stage, mothers may feel tired and fed up. Many are becoming increasingly impatient. Pregnancy no longer seems enjoyable. Remember that no pregnancy lasts forever. At this point, use every opportunity to rest.

After the due date, amniotic fluid may gradually decrease. This is important because it may compress the umbilical cord and reduce the blood and oxygen reaching the baby. Your doctor uses Doppler ultrasound to check for reduced blood flow. The placenta may also show signs of ageing and loss of function. Because your baby no longer stores additional fat, weight may decrease. Remember to count the baby's movements.