How to Deal with Being Pregnant and Past Your Due Date

Your due date has come and gone. But there is no new baby snuggled up in your arms just yet. Plus, your phone keeps ringing with concerned but annoying calls from family and friends. Your back aches and your feet are swollen. You know that you will be having your baby soon, but that knowledge can be of little comfort when you are physically so uncomfortable. Here are some ideas that might (or might not) help you get through these last few days of waiting for baby.

Take the phone off the hook.

At least for a little while. Give yourself a break from well wishers and curious friends calling to find out if baby has arrived, or the latest word from the doctor. Even though you know they are just concerned and interested, the constant asking will probably just annoy you right now. So, let people know you will CALL THEM, if anything happens. When labor does start, it is a good idea to plan on having one contact person whom you can notify and then that person can make the rest of the necessary calls to family and friends.

Try and Rest

This is much easier said then done. I know, I have been in this place myself a couple of times. But at least try. It is true that when baby does come, you will be wishing you could have some more time to rest and sleep a little. If you are too uncomfortable to sleep well at night, which is probably the case right now, then try little catnaps during the day.

Take a walk

Walking is good for you and your body, as it gets ready for labor. Some believe that walking itself may help bring on labor if you are overdue. But do not over exert yourself trying to get labor started. Just walk for the exercise and to relieve stress and anxiety.

Treat yourself

Go out for that hot fudge sundae. Have a bowl of popcorn, or order in some yummy chow mein. Whatever you are craving, indulge and treat yourself. You deserve extra special pampering, and now is the time for it. After you have the baby, pampering time for yourself will be hard to come by, so go for it now while you are still pregnant.

Talk with your doctor

If you have any concerns, call your doctor. Go in and have a stress test if you are worried about the baby. The doctor will be monitoring you closely now that your due date has passed, so make sure you stay in touch if you have any changes.

Do Not Try To Induce Labor

Stay away from old wives tales about inducing labor. Castor oil and other remedies claimed to start labor could actually be harmful. Ask your doctor if you want ideas on getting labor started. Eating spicy foods, and sex, are well known methods people have claimed will encourage labor, but always check with your doctor first before trying either of those methods as well.

Journal

If you haven’t already, start a journal now for baby. Write down how you are feeling these last few days. Enjoy the anticipation of baby’s birth, and write about it. Remember that this is a very special time and though you feel very ready to be a mom, you will also miss these last few days soon enough.

Finish Nesting

If you haven’t already finished the nursery, take this time to do it now. Crib, bassinet, baby clothing….now is the time to make sure all is ready for baby. Wash extra clothes, blankets, and crib bedding. Make sure the carseat is installed in the car, and that it is correctly secured. Take this time to finish your baby preparations and enjoy anticipating your new little bundle.