Overdue Pregnancy Symptoms and Where to Get Support
Introduction
The overdue pregnancy stage is typically between weeks 40 and 41 weeks +5 days. This is the final stretch before you meet your little one, and while most pregnancies last around 40 weeks it’s not uncommon for babies to arrive a little later. Your baby is now fully developed, and you may be feeling ready to meet them.
Here’s a breakdown of what will be happening during this time; some insights into physical and emotional symptoms you might experience; and a guide to where you can get the support you need.
Overdue pregnancy timeline
Weeks 40-41: Your baby is fully developed and ready for birth, and you may start to feel more pressure on your bladder and pelvis as your body gets ready for labour.
Week 41 weeks +5 days: If your baby hasn’t arrived yet, it’s considered post-term. According to UK guidelines, if you reach this stage without going into labour, it’s important to monitor the pregnancy carefully and consider discussing induction options with your midwife or obstetric consultant.
This is an exciting time, but we know it can come with many changes. Let’s break down some common symptoms and how Pregma’s expert clinicians can support you.
Physical symptoms
Increased discomfort and pelvic pressure
As your baby drops lower into your pelvis, you may feel increased pressure in the lower abdomen and pelvic region. This can make walking or sitting uncomfortable. So, who can help? Our midwives can offer advice on managing pelvic pressure and suggest positions to alleviate discomfort. And our physiotherapists can provide pelvic floor exercises and tips to relieve pressure.
Braxton Hicks contractions or early labour signs
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These practice contractions can become more frequent as your body prepares for labour. If they become painful or regular, it could be an indication that labour is imminent. So, who can help? Our midwives can help distinguish between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labour contractions, guiding you on when to go to the hospital.
Cervical ripening and dilatation
As you approach the end of your pregnancy, your cervix will begin to soften and dilate in preparation for labour. So, who can help? Our obstetricians can check your cervix and discuss methods such as membrane sweeping or other options to encourage labour.
Swelling in hands, feet and ankles
Swelling can become more pronounced during the final weeks of pregnancy, especially as your body retains more fluid. So, who can help? Our midwives can provide strategies for managing swelling, such as leg elevation and proper hydration.
Emotional symptoms
Anxiety about waiting for labour
It’s common to feel anxious or nervous as you approach labour. The wait can feel long, and the anticipation of meeting your baby can bring on mixed emotions. So, who can help? Our mental health specialists can offer relaxation techniques, help you manage stress and provide emotional support during this stage.
Frustration or impatience
The wait can be frustrating, especially when you are nearing or passing your due date. Many women feel impatient as they eagerly await their baby’s arrival. So, who can help? Our midwives can guide you on techniques to encourage labour and help you manage emotional stress. And our mental health specialists can help you navigate feelings of impatience and provide emotional coping strategies.
Wellbeing symptoms
Trouble sleeping
As you get closer to labour, discomfort, anxiety, or anticipation can make it harder to rest. So, who can help? Our sleep specialists can offer tips on comfortable sleep positions and relaxation techniques to improve rest during the final weeks.
Lack of energy or fatigue
The physical toll of pregnancy can leave you feeling exhausted, especially as you approach the final stages. So, who can help? Our nutritionists can offer meal plans to ensure you’re getting enough energy and nutrients to stay strong as labour approaches.
No signs of Labour yet (post-term)
If you are overdue, it’s essential to monitor both your health and your baby’s health. In the UK, at 41 weeks +5 days, it’s standard practice to discuss options for labour induction with your midwife or obstetric consultant to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. So, who can help? Our obstetricians will monitor your baby’s well-being with tests such as ultrasounds or non-stress tests and discuss your options for labour induction or other interventions if necessary.
Let Pregma support you during your first trimester
Pregma’s team is dedicated to ensuring that your overdue pregnancy is managed with care and expertise:
- Our obstetricians monitor the health of your baby and assess cervical dilation, discussing methods like membrane sweeping or induction if labour does not begin.
- Our midwives provide emotional and physical support, offering guidance on symptom management, techniques to encourage labour and reassurance throughout this waiting period.
- Our physiotherapists help with pelvic floor exercises, posture, and pain management techniques.
- Our sleep specialists provide advice on how to sleep comfortably during the final weeks of pregnancy.
- Our mental health specialists offer emotional support, stress management tools, and relaxation techniques to help you manage anxiety and frustration.
- And our nutritionists ensure you’re maintaining a balanced diet to support both you and your baby in these final weeks.
Pregnancy doesn’t always follow a strict timeline and it’s completely normal to go a little past your due date. At Pregma, our clinicians are here to support you with care and reassurance as you navigate these final stages.
If you’ve reached 41 weeks +5 days, it’s essential to monitor your pregnancy closely. Discuss your options with your midwife or obstetric consultant to make the best decisions for you and your baby.
So, if you need specific help with any aspect of your pregnancy, or just want additional general support or advice, why not book a consultation today?
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