Post-Term Pregnancy

Post-term pregnancy defines a gestation that has completed or gone beyond 294 days or 42 weeks from the last menstrual period. The prevalence of this condition varies across countries and is dependent on an accurate evaluation of pregnancy dating. There has been a decline in post-term pregnancies in recent years due to early interventions and labor inductions. The etiologies are varied and include parity, genetic, and environmental factors. It is associated with complications for both mother and baby, such as an increased risk of preeclampsia, oligohydramnios, macrosomia, fetal distress, and perinatal death. There is also an increase in the need for obstetrical interventions and cesarean deliveries. Long-term complications such as obesity and behavioral problems have been reported. Close monitoring and consideration of labor induction are recommended for women in or approaching the post-term period. This chapter discusses the etiologies, risks and complications associated with post-term pregnancy and reviews ways of accurately estimating gestational age, methods of monitoring fetus well-being and the different ways of inducing labor.