Apparently only around 5% of babies arrive on their estimated due date. So when your doctor tells you your due date, think of it as an estimate rather than a definite appointment.
The last few days of pregnancy can seem longer than the whole nine months that went before. Babies have a habit of turning up when suits them, regardless of what the calendar says. Both of my pregnancies went two weeks overdue, so I've had two shots at handling this unwanted waiting time.
The first time I think I handled it all wrong, getting more and more frustrated at the lack of action. I got so cheesed off with people ringing to see if there was any news that I took the phone off the hook.
Second time round I was a bit more wise to the process, and spent the time much more enjoyably. This is what I did to ensure that the overdue bit of pregnancy was as calm as possible:
- I started reading a really long, engrossing novel. I figured that the baby was bound to come at the most interesting part. In the end he didn't, but at least I got a good book read.
- Went out for lots of curries. Now curry is supposed to spark off labour, but I can't say it worked in my case. However, it was fun to try, and I enjoyed a few nights out with my partner. Once the baby arrived, date night disappeared for quite some time.
- I walked a lot. I did feel like an elephant traversing the Ganges, but still made the effort to keep on the move.
- I had acupuncture. My midwife recommended an acupuncturist specialising in fertility, so I went along for a few needles in my hand and back. This did seem to work, and my son was born 36 hours later.
What are your tips for getting through the overdue stage of pregnancy? Leave a comment below