Your due date is calculated as 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP), or 38 weeks from your date of ovulation. It's an estimation, a guide, not a definitive deadline. Knowing your due date helps track your pregnancy and plan for your baby's arrival. Our pregnancy calculator can help you pinpoint this date, along with key milestones throughout your pregnancy.
Worried About Being Overdue?
Calculate your due date and track pregnancy milestones with our easy-to-use tool.
Calculate Your Due Date →What is Considered "Overdue"?
A pregnancy is considered full term between 37 and 42 weeks. Babies born before 37 weeks are considered premature, while those born after 42 weeks are considered post-term, or overdue. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider if you approach or exceed your due date.
Common Scenarios After Your Due Date
If you're past your due date, you might experience:
- Continued Monitoring: Your doctor will likely increase monitoring with tests like Non-Stress Tests (NST) and Biophysical Profiles (BPP) to check your baby's well-being.
- Spontaneous Labor: Labor may begin on its own. Some women simply have longer pregnancies.
- Induction of Labor: If labor doesn't start naturally, your doctor might suggest inducing labor to minimize risks.
What to Expect After Your Due Date
Here's what your doctor might do after you pass your due date:
- Confirm Due Date: They may double-check your due date based on your LMP or early ultrasound.
- Assess Cervix: They'll examine your cervix to determine if it's ripening (softening, thinning, and dilating) for labor.
- Discuss Induction: They'll discuss the risks and benefits of inducing labor and your preferences.
Risks of Going Past Your Due Date
While most overdue pregnancies result in healthy babies, some risks increase, including:
- Macrosomia: The baby may grow larger, potentially complicating vaginal delivery and increasing the risk of C-section.
- Oligohydramnios: The amount of amniotic fluid may decrease, possibly compressing the umbilical cord.
- Meconium Aspiration: The baby might pass meconium (first stool) in the womb, which can cause breathing problems if inhaled.
- Placental Insufficiency: The placenta may not function as efficiently, reducing oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby.
- Postmaturity Syndrome: This can lead to decreased fat stores and other issues for the baby.
Induction of Labor: What to Expect
If induction is recommended, various methods can be used:
- Prostaglandins: Medications applied to the cervix to help it ripen.
- Foley Catheter: A balloon catheter inserted into the cervix to dilate it mechanically.
- Amniotomy: Artificially rupturing the amniotic sac (breaking your water).
- Oxytocin (Pitocin): A synthetic hormone administered via IV to stimulate contractions.
You will be closely monitored throughout the induction process.
Navigating Post-Term Anxiety
It's normal to feel anxious after your due date. Here are some tips:
- Stay Active: Continue with light exercises as approved by your doctor.
- Rest: Get plenty of rest to conserve energy.
- Prepare: Pack your hospital bag and finalize any last-minute preparations.
- Distract Yourself: Engage in relaxing activities to take your mind off waiting.
- Communicate: Talk to your healthcare provider and loved ones about your concerns.
Tools to Help You Along the Way
While you wait, continue to track your pregnancy and prepare for labor. Use our tools for support:
- Pregnancy Calculator: Reconfirm your due date to ensure you are indeed past term.
- Ovulation Calculator: Understand your cycle for future planning.
Remember, your due date is an estimate, and most pregnancies result in healthy deliveries within a week or two on either side. Stay informed, communicate with your healthcare provider, and trust that your baby will arrive when they are ready.