Post Dates Pregnancy

The risks and benefits of induction of labor post-dates.

Post-term pregnancy (41 weeks plus) carries several potential risks, both for the pregnant individual and the baby.  Potential risks include:

1. Fetal macrosomia: This refers to a newborn who's significantly larger than average. Babies born after 41 weeks may be larger, which can lead to issues during delivery, such as injury to the baby or the need for a C-section.

2. Low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios): The amount of amniotic fluid decreases after 41 weeks, which may increase the risk of labor complications, such as cord compression.

3. Decreased placental function: Over time, the placenta may begin to age and not work as well, potentially leading to insufficient nutrition or oxygen for the baby.

4. Meconium aspiration: This can happen when the baby passes stool (meconium) and then breathes it into their lungs before or during birth, which can cause breathing problems or a severe lung infection after birth.

5. Stillbirth: The risk of stillbirth increases after 41 weeks.

6. Infection: The risk of infection increases the longer the water is broken after 41 weeks.

7. Difficult labor or birth: Because the baby is larger, labor may be more difficult. There may also be a higher likelihood of requiring labor induction or C-section.

8. Neonatal morbidity: Post-term babies are more likely to be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

For the birthing parent, risks may include:

1. Labor complications: A larger baby may increase the likelihood of labor complications, such as prolonged labor, and the need for a C-section or instrumental delivery (with forceps or vacuum).

2. Infection: The risk of infection, particularly endometritis (inflammation of the inner lining of the uterus), may be higher.

3. Perineal injury during childbirth: If the baby is large (macrosomia), there's a higher risk of perineal tearing during vaginal delivery.

4. Postpartum hemorrhage: The risk of heavy bleeding after birth may be increased.

Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

509-392-6700

Richard Lorenzo, D.O.

Kortney Jones ARNP

Author

Richard Lorenzo, DO Dr. Lorenzo is also a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He provides gynecological and obstetric services, including prenatal care, pregnancy care, infertility, and gynecology. Dr. Lorenzo is proficient in advanced surgical techniques, including minimally-invasive procedures, as well as surgery for abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and hysterectomy. He has specialized training in high-risk obstetrics and minimally invasive surgical techniques, including minimally invasive hysterectomy.