Post-Term Pregnancy: Causes, Risks, and How to Manage It Safely

Introduction

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, usually lasting around 40 weeks. But sometimes, it continues beyond the expected date — this is called a post-term pregnancy.

At Vighnaharta Hospital, Pune, we understand that waiting beyond your due date can bring anxiety. Our team ensures safe monitoring and expert guidance to protect both mother and baby during this crucial phase.

What Is Post-Term Pregnancy?

A post-term pregnancy occurs when a woman remains pregnant beyond 42 weeks.

Here’s how doctors classify it:

• Full-term: 39–40 weeks
• Late-term: 41 weeks
• Post-term: 42 weeks or more

While most pregnancies end before 42 weeks, it’s important to monitor the mother and baby closely after 40 weeks to ensure their wellbeing.

Possible Causes of Post-Term Pregnancy

There isn’t one exact reason, but several factors can contribute to a longer pregnancy:

1. First pregnancy (primigravida)
2. Irregular menstrual cycles — may lead to incorrect due-date calculation
3. Family history of post-term pregnancies
4. Hormonal changes or imbalance
5. Previous post-term pregnancy

Risks of Post-Term Pregnancy

For the Baby

• Low amniotic fluid — may reduce cushioning and movement
• Aging placenta — reduces oxygen and nutrient flow
• Large baby (macrosomia) — can make delivery difficult
• Meconium aspiration — baby may inhale stool passed in the womb

For the Mother

• Prolonged labor or induced delivery
• Higher chance of C-section
• Vaginal tears or bleeding
• Stress and discomfort due to delay

Diagnosis and Monitoring

Once pregnancy crosses 40 weeks, our doctors at Vighnaharta Hospital begin close monitoring to track the baby’s health through:

• Ultrasound scans for baby’s position and amniotic fluid
• Non-Stress Test (NST) for heartbeat and movement
• Doppler Test for blood flow and placenta function

These help determine whether to wait for natural labor or plan an induction for safe delivery.

Safe Management Options

If labor doesn’t start naturally by 41–42 weeks, the doctor may recommend:

1. Membrane sweep – gently encourages labor hormones
2. Labor induction – medications used to start contractions safely
3. Cesarean section – if induction fails or the baby shows signs of distress

Our 24/7 obstetric care and advanced NICU support ensure both mother and baby receive timely, safe care.

Care Tips for Expecting Mothers

• Track baby’s movements daily
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
• Stay hydrated and active (as advised by your doctor)
• Attend all check-ups regularly
• Discuss your delivery plan with your gynecologist

When to Visit the Hospital Immediately

Call or visit Vighnaharta Hospital right away if you experience:

• Reduced baby movement
• Vaginal bleeding or fluid leak
• Blurred vision or severe headache
• Sudden swelling or abdominal pain

Our emergency department is available 24×7 for immediate maternity assistance.

Why Choose Vighnaharta Hospital for Post-Term Pregnancy Care

At Vighnaharta Hospital, Keshav Nagar, Pune, we combine expert gynecologists, advanced fetal monitoring technology, and compassionate nursing care to ensure:

• Safe and timely delivery
• Continuous mother–baby monitoring
• NICU support for newborns
• Insurance support for all major providers

We’re committed to guiding every mother safely through her pregnancy — even beyond 40 weeks.

Conclusion

A post-term pregnancy may seem stressful, but with the right care and constant monitoring, most mothers deliver safely.
If your due date has passed and you’re looking for expert maternity care, visit Vighnaharta Hospital, Pune — your trusted partner in safe motherhood.

FAQs

1. Is it normal to go beyond 40 weeks?
   Yes, many women deliver after 40 weeks. However, after 41 weeks, doctors monitor you more closely.
2. Will I need to be induced?
   If labor hasn’t started by 41–42 weeks, induction may be recommended for safety.
3. What are the risks if I wait too long?
   After 42 weeks, placenta efficiency drops and may affect the baby, so timely medical care is essential.
4. Does Vighnaharta Hospital handle post-term pregnancies?
   Yes, our maternity team specializes in safe management of post-term and high-risk pregnancies.
5. Is post-term pregnancy covered under insurance?
   Yes, Vighnaharta Hospital supports major insurance providers like SBI, Bajaj Allianz, ICICI Lombard, Star Health, HDFC Ergo, and more.