Increased risks of going overdue aged 40+

[lucylookout]

I posted this in 'pregnancy' at first, but thought actually maybe this is a better place for my question...

I'm currently 37+2 with DC2. I'll be 41 around due date. I've read/heard some stuff to indicate that the risks of still birth double in women over 40 (from about 4 in 1000 to 8 in 1000). It's still a slim chance, but enough for me to want to talk about it with my midwife (they have booked a 41 week appt, but I really don't want to wait that long). I think the risk is that after 40 weeks the placenta can deteriorate quite rapidly, causing the baby problems. I know I still have plenty of time to go into labour naturally, but i've got a growth scan in hospital on Thursday, and thought it would be a good opportunity to talk to someone about my concerns. Does anyone know anymore about the risks? Even better does anyone have a link to any research that I can print out and take in with me?
Thanks

Hi. I'm sorry I can't be much help as I'm pregnant with my first, but I'm 42 and my midwife told me at my first appointment that they'd be inducing me before I got too far past my due date. However, a friend of mine, same age, due just before me, hadn't been told that. So some hospitals definitely take note of this.

Thanks Greypuddle, I saw a doctor at hospital today and she said their policy was not to induce unless the woman was over 45 and pregnant for the first time. But, she agreed to scan me again in my 39th week (two weeks) to make sure everything is OK, and because baby is measuring HUGE they will induce me shortly after 40 weeks if nothing has happened by then, so I have a plan in place that I feel happy with

I'm glad you feel happier. Good luck