Postterm pregnancy - Definition & Explanation for Mothers

Table of Contents

Definition

Postterm pregnancy refers to a pregnancy that has extended beyond the term of 40 weeks, from the first day of the last menstrual period. Generally, it’s considered postterm if it extends to 42 weeks or more. This condition might lead to potential health risks for both the mother and the baby.

Key Takeaways

Postterm pregnancy refers to a pregnancy that has extended beyond 42 weeks, which is longer than the normal pregnancy duration of 40 weeks. This means the baby remains in the uterus longer than usual.
Postterm pregnancies may have certain risks such as a larger baby which can complicate vaginal delivery, decrease in amniotic fluid which could result in less cushion for the baby, and the placenta might not function as well due to aging.
Healthcare providers frequently monitor postterm pregnancies closely to identify any possible risks. Intervention methods, such as inducing labor, are often considered if a pregnancy extends much past the due date to ensure the safety of mother and child.

Importance

Postterm pregnancy is an important term in motherhood because it refers to pregnancies that extend beyond 42 weeks of gestation, which is beyond the typical 40-week gestation period.

It is crucial for expectant mothers and healthcare professionals to understand this term as postterm pregnancies can potentially pose risks to both the mother and the infant.

These risks include a higher likelihood of a cesarean section, fetal macrosomia (having a baby with an unusually high birth weight), and problems related to the aging of the placenta, which can lead to complications like decreased amniotic fluid levels and fetal distress.

Therefore, correctly identifying and managing postterm pregnancies is essential for ensuring the safety and health of both mom and baby.

Explanation

Postterm pregnancy, also known as prolonged pregnancy, refers to pregnancies that have extended to or beyond 42 weeks of gestation, or two weeks beyond the standard 40 weeks gestation period. The concept of a postterm pregnancy serves as a medical determination to help physicians identify pregnancies that have gone beyond the typical timeline. This identification aids in managing and monitoring potential risks and complications that could affect the health of both the mother and the fetus.

Obstetricians typically use the term to underscore pregnancies that may require intervention to initiate labor and delivery, such as induction or even a possible cesarean section (C-section).The significance of identifying a postterm pregnancy lies in the associated risk factors and complications. For some, pregnancies extending beyond the estimated due date may not pose any issues. However, in other instances, it may lead to an increased risk of having a larger-than-average baby, which could complicate vaginal delivery.

Also, complications such as decreased amniotic fluid, placenta deterioration, or the baby having a bowel movement while still in the womb, known as meconium aspiration, can occur. These potential risks underline the importance of regular prenatal assessments, post-term testing, and discussions on the best course of action for delivery. Overall, the term postterm pregnancy helps optimize the management and outcome of prolonged pregnancies.

Examples of Postterm pregnancy

A 37-year-old woman has had two previous pregnancies. Both of these were delivered at 41 weeks and her current pregnancy has reached 42 weeks. Because she has crossed the typical 40 weeks gestation period, she is experiencing a postterm pregnancy.

A first-time mother turning 40 next month is expecting her baby. Her due date was 10 days ago but there are still no signs of labor. This is a postterm pregnancy since it’s two weeks overdue.

A mother is due to give birth to her third child, and she has always delivered late in the past. Currently, she is in her 43rd week of pregnancy. Despite this pregnancy progressing healthily, it is classified as a postterm pregnancy because it is three weeks past the typical 40 week gestation period.

FAQs for Postterm Pregnancy

What is postterm pregnancy?

Postterm pregnancy refers to pregnancies that have extended to or beyond 42 weeks (294 days) of gestation, which is about 2 weeks beyond the typical 40-week gestation period.

What causes postterm pregnancy?

It’s not entirely clear why some pregnancies are postterm. Some women may have a naturally longer menstrual cycle, and hence a longer gestation period. Sometimes, the cause can be due to an error in accurately dating the pregnancy.

What are the risks associated with postterm pregnancy?

Postterm pregnancy can increase the risk of certain complications including delivery-related complications due to the baby’s size, decreased amniotic fluid, and the baby’s continued growth potentially leading to fewer nutrients available. It is recommended to have regular checks if the pregnancy goes beyond 41 weeks.

How to manage postterm pregnancy?

Management for postterm pregnancy often begins with assessing the accuracy of the due date. If the pregnancy is confirmed as postterm, the provider may recommend close monitoring of the baby and possibly inducing labor.

When does labor need to be induced in a postterm pregnancy?

Doctors typically suggest inducing labor if a pregnant person is still pregnant by 41 weeks. However, the exact timing may depend on the health of the pregnant person and the baby.

Related Motherhood Terms

Extended Gestation
Overdue Pregnancy
Late Term Birth
41 Weeks+ Pregnancy
Delayed Birth

Sources for More Information

Mayo Clinic: This health-focused website also provides ample information on postterm pregnancy, including symptoms, causes and treatment solutions.
WebMD: This website provides information needed about postterm pregnancy as well as answers to common questions.
World Health Organization: WHO provides scientific and authoritative information on public health issues, including postterm pregnancy.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: This professional organization provides guidelines and recommendations on women’s health issues, including postterm pregnancy.