5 days overdue, fed up, scared and wondering what to do

[ScarlettButler]

So DC2 showing no signs of arriving (DC1 was most punctual) and I'm beginning to fret. Trying not to get paranoid re baby movement (she is moving although not as painfully/vigorously I think but may be just worrying over much) but worrying about when the placenta stops working as efficiently particularly as I'm an older mum. Also worrying how big she'll be given overdue. And it's getting close to the weekend...and got myself spooked by out of hours care stories.
Had curry last fri, been drinking raspberry leaf tea, eaten pineapple. What shd I do? So don't want induction after NCT stories but worried that she's ok.

I felt just the same, my 1st 2 dc were born at 39 and then 40 weeks, and both were big babies then. I was terrified by the prospect of induction having read all the scare stories. I tried everything, acupuncture, sex, evening primrose oil, curry, raspberry leaf tea but there was no way that she was budging.

I went in for induction 12 days overdue (the longest 12 days of my life), the induction was fine, labour 1hr40mins but she was big, 11lb110z, but I do have big babes anyway, It really was fine and afterwards I wished I had made the most of those final days without worrying so much. Take care of yourself, trying things to induce if you want but remember that your baby will come when they are ready even if that means a medical induction. I think inductions are often easier if you have had a normal labour before as at least your body knows what to do.

Hope it all goes well for you, they can feel like very long days I know.

Please try not to fret. Five days is only a little overdue though I know every day feels like a week at this stage. Remember your due date is an approximation. 2 weeks before to 2 week after is still 'term'. Babies often quieten down a little towards the birth. So long as you can still count 10 movements (ie kicks not periods of kicking) in 12 hours that is considered normal. Of course mothers know themselves and their babies best and if you are worried about movements phone the hospital. They will be quite happy to do a CTG to put your mind at rest. How much babies grow in the last weeks is open to question. Some people suggest growth slows down so baby shouldn't be much harder to push out tomorrow than it was last week if you know what I mean. As for the placenta, again this is controversial. Even older mothers (and I take it by older you mean over 40), if they are healthy and well in pregnancy will have a healthy placenta that will see them through to their 42nd week. Of course your maternity team know you best so be guided by them. If they say you are safe to go on to 42 weeks before induction then trust them. It is always best to reduce your anxiety. Anxiety works against the processes of going into labour. Try anything that will help you slow your mind down, meditative breathing, a soak in a lovely bath, a good book. Good luck

thanks granny and green...I am sure all is well - not quite over 40 but am definitely older than most mums round my way. DC1 was a good size and came on time so dreading a huge baby!
Am sure it will all happen soon but don't want to get pushed into induction and stuff and midwives were surprised to see me last week when I was still just under 40 weeks and started talking about sweeps and induction for this week. Haven't really had any BH ir anything either which wd suggest labour on its way

Term is 37-42 weeks - WHO definition.

You are not overdue.

If you are worried ask if you can go in for monitoring.

I know it's crap and you just want the last bit to be over, but try to relax.

I would be thankful your baby is leaving a decent gap after new year so you don't have too many clashing festivals.

I guess that's more of a long term view though and doesn't address your current worries.

All the best.

my daughter was born 21 days after my due date. She was 9lbs 9oz, born at home in water, it wasn't painful and it was the most magical experience of my life.

Inductions make birthing violent and painful - dont do it unless your baby is unwell!