How do you assess a post-term baby's condition?
Luckily, there are methods that your physician can use to monitor your post-term baby's condition. Among these methods are:

• Kick count: A "kick count" is a record you keep of how often your baby moves. Your doctor will tell you to contact him immediately should you notice your baby suddenly decreases his movements. This could be a sign of fetal distress, which would require immediate testing to determine your baby's condition to asses whether delivery should be initiated quickly.
• Nonstress test: This test, a type of electronic fetal monitoring, uses a special instrument to measure how your baby's heart reacts when his body moves. This helps the doctor determine if your baby is in distress.
• Contraction stress test: When your uterus contracts, this test (which is another form of electronic fetal monitoring) measures your baby's heart rate with a special instrument. It helps determine your baby's condition during labor, and allows your doctor to see if there's any fetal distress.
• Ultrasound: Your doctor can determine your baby's size, position, breathing rate, heartbeat, and body movements with an ultrasound. Ultrasound is also useful in determining how much amniotic fluid surrounds your baby. This is important to determine because insufficient amniotic fluid for prolonged periods can cause labor complications. In addition, your doctor can assess the size and position of the placenta using ultrasound. This information is important for your doctor to know because the placenta provides your baby with life-sustaining oxygen.

Will my doctor induce labor if I'm late?
Depending on your condition, and that of your baby, your doctor may discuss the possibility of inducing labor. This is a decision that must be made on a case-by-case basis. Remember that most babies are not born on their actual due date. While complications could potentially occur in a postdate pregnancy, they're rare. Most of the time, babies are born healthy and complications are minimal. This is the result of the excellent fetal monitoring techniques available to your health-care provider.

While you might feel uncomfortable and anxious to meet your new baby, rest assured that a postdate pregnancy is not uncommon. Keep the lines of communication open with your health-care provider. It might help to write down your questions so you can discuss them at your visits. She can inform and reassure as she monitors your progress.

Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's condition.

Content courtesy of American Baby.