Post-Term Pregnancy

The due date has passed. A week, perhaps two. The child stays where it is. Your belly grows heavier, the days stretch, the check-ups at the hospital multiply. Everyone asks. You ask yourself. And your body is silent — or rather: it answers in its own way, by not beginning what should have begun long ago.

The medical picture is clearly defined: a pregnancy lasts around 40 weeks, counted from the first day of the last menstrual period. From week 40+0 one speaks of post-term; from 42+0 induction is typically considered, because placenta, amniotic fluid, and the baby's wellbeing require closer monitoring. All of that has its place, and all of that should be discussed with your midwife and doctor. But beside this outer truth there is a second one, often overlooked.