Blog

Only 4% of babies actually arrive on their due dates.  I am now 40weeks +4 days and am extremely frustrated.  My eldest was 9 days late and my second was half a day late so I had hoped that this little munchkin might come early.  No such luck!  But what are the options available to someone in my position?

Most women will go into labour within a week of their due date.  If you have not gone into labour by 41 weeks then your midwife will offer you a membrane sweep.  These are not particularly pleasant and you do NOT have to have one if you choose not to.  This involves a vaginal examination that stimulates the cervix to produce hormones that can naturally bring on labour.  It also separates the membranes of the amniotic sac from the cervix.  This can be extremely uncomfortable and intrusive and does not always result in labour as this will depend whether the cervix is ready for labour.  There will normally be some blood when this is done.

Labour can be chemically induced with Oxytocin or Prostoglandin although there is a small risk with each of the uterus becoming over or hyperstimulated.

A caesarean section will be used as a last resort if labour doesn’t take place.

Many hospitals will inducing labour before 42 weeks as there is evidence to show that the placenta is no longer functioning at its optimum and there is an increased risk although small of still birth.  Only about 4% of babies are born after 42 weeks.

How long will Squishy decided to stay put is anyone’s guess although I am hoping he decides to move out soon as I really could do with a cuddle from him.  I have another scan booked in this week to make sure all is ok although he is still moving around quite a bit so I would assume he’s quite happy where he is!