What Happens If You Go Past Your Due Date?

Your due date has come and gone — but still no baby? Don’t worry! Most first-time moms go a few days over their due date, and it’s usually nothing to stress about.

🗓 What Does It Mean to Be “Overdue”?

A pregnancy is considered full term between 37 and 42 weeks. If you reach 40 weeks, you're not officially “overdue” until you pass:

• 41 weeks: Late-term
• 42+ weeks: Post-term

Only about 5%–7% of women go beyond 42 weeks with a confirmed due date.

👩‍⚕️ What Your Doctor Will Do

If you go past your due date, your doctor will monitor you and your baby more closely. This may include:

• Non-stress tests to check baby’s heart rate
• Ultrasounds to measure fluid levels and movement
• Cervix checks for dilation or effacement

🧪 Risks of Going Too Far Past Your Due Date

Most overdue pregnancies are healthy, but the risks slightly increase after 41–42 weeks, including:

• Decreased amniotic fluid
• Placenta aging and functioning less efficiently
• Higher chance of a larger baby (macrosomia)
• Increased chance of needing a C-section

💉 Will I Be Induced?

Induction is usually recommended sometime between 41 and 42 weeks, especially if:

• You have other risk factors (like high blood pressure)
• The baby’s size or heart rate is concerning
• You’ve reached 42 weeks with no signs of labor

Induction can involve medications, membrane stripping, or breaking your water — your provider will discuss the safest option for you.

🧘 What You Can Do While You Wait

• Stay active (walking, stretching)
• Practice relaxation or breathing techniques
• Discuss safe natural induction methods with your doctor
• Rest — baby will come when ready!

📌 Final Thoughts

Going past your due date can feel frustrating, but it’s very common. Stay in touch with your provider, watch for signs of labor, and keep your hospital bag ready.

Still not sure when your baby might arrive? Try our Free Due Date Calculator to get a personalized estimate.