Although it’s perfectly normal for a baby to arrive past the due date, you and your baby will get some extra attention this week. To be sure all is well, your practitioner will likely monitor your overdue baby through non-stress tests (you’re hooked up to a fetal monitor to measure your baby’s heart rate and movement) and amniotic-fluid checks. When this latecomer finally makes its debut, chances are its skin will be dry, cracked, peeling, or wrinkled – all completely temporary. That’s because the protective vernix was shed weeks ago in anticipation of a delivery date that came and went. Your baby will be more alert – “Hi, Mommy!”
Common Symptoms
- More frequent Braxton Hicks contractions
- Bloody show or loss of mucous plug
- Rupture of membranes (possibly)
- Cervical dilation or effacement
- Diarrhea or nausea
- Increased swelling of ankles and feet
- Difficulty sleeping
- Colostrum
To-Do List
- Waiting beyond your due date can give you lots of time for thinking and stressing about everything that could go wrong. Keep your mind occupied by reading up on baby care instead.
Makchic Fun Tip!
Lip Balm. So simple; yet you will be so glad you have it in the dry hospital air.
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Image: Essential Baby