Q & A
Dear Midwife,
I am currently 2 days overdue. My doctor says he can induce my labor or schedule a c-section. How overdue is too overdue? When should I worry about my baby coming too late?
Margie
Hi Margie,
Your due date is only an estimation of when your baby is ready to be born. Very few babies come on their due date. Your baby may need a few days to a week (or two) longer inside the womb. I believe babies come when they are ready.
I would hesitate to schedule an induction that may not work, or schedule a c-section, neither of which are good for you or the baby. Trying to induce a delivery with an unripe cervix for instance, most likely will lead to a c-section, with all its post partum complications.
I would send you in for an ultrasound and a non-stress test at 10 days past your due date. If your amniotic fluid index (AFI) was within normal limits and the non-stress test was negative, we patiently wait for the baby who usually comes within the next 4 days. Very few people go 2 weeks overdue.
Dear Midwife,
I am craving pickles, is that good for me?
Georgette
Hi Georgette,
You are most likely craving pickles for the salt, a mineral that you need to help develop the baby, the amniotic fluid and your blood supply. The Brewer Diet recommends that pregnant women salt to taste. (Metabolic Toxemia of Late Pregnancy, Thomas Brewer, M.D.)
Posted by: noreply@blogger.com (Dear Midwife)
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