Fortunately, there are many ways to stay occupied when you are waiting for your overdue baby—and even a few ways you might be able to jumpstart labor.
What Is an Overdue Pregnancy?
A full-term pregnancy typically lasts between 39 and 41 weeks. Babies born past 40 weeks or 280 days are considered “overdue.” While a late-term or post-term pregnancy does come with some risks, the length of pregnancy actually varies more widely than people may realize. In fact, many doctors will not take measures to induce labor until around the 42-week mark. But that fact may not bring much comfort to a pregnant person who is not getting around well, is having trouble sleeping, or just feeling the uncomfortable symptoms of late pregnancy.
Things to Do During an Overdue Pregnancy
If your baby is overdue, it’s helpful to find ways to pass the time and stay comfortable during those final days of pregnancy. Some will keep your mind off the overdue pregnancy. Others will help you be more prepared for your baby’s arrival. There are even a few tips that may help you bring on labor naturally.
Stay Busy
It’s normal to feel anxious as the days add up past your due date. Finding ways to pass the time and stay occupied can help. Here are a few ideas to keep busy until labor begins:
Binge-watch the latest TV series.Call and catch up with an old friend.Check out a movie at a local theater.Clean out the fridge and pantry.Do a favorite hobby or pick up a new one such as painting, knitting, or baking, for example.Get some quality playtime with your pets or older children.Go for a walk in your neighborhood or the local park.Go window shopping or online browsing.Listen to your favorite music and make a playlist for labor.Make some meals and freeze them for after the baby’s arrival.Print out easy, healthy recipes to make when the baby arrives.Read a book that’s been collecting dust on the bookshelf.
Prepare for Baby
Most new parents will say there was something more they could have done to be more prepared for their baby. If your baby is overdue, use the extra time to get organized. You will appreciate the extra prep—especially during those first few days and nights when rest may be hard to come by.
Go over your list of baby names one more time. Learn how to time contractions. Read a book about what to expect with a newborn. Join online parenting support groups. Make a list of addresses to send birth announcements. Install the baby’s car seat in the car and get it checked by a certified technician. Shop for nursing bras. Pack a birth bag for you and hospital bag for your partner. Put together any unmade furniture. Start working on the baby book. Stock up on diapers, wipes, and diaper cream. Wash and put away your baby’s clothes. Write or update your birth plan.
Treat Yourself
The last few days spent waiting for baby are a good time to pamper yourself and do the things you may not have time for once the baby is here. Here are some simple ways to incorporate self-care into the final phase of an overdue pregnancy:
Buy a new nightgown and comfy socks or slippers. Get acupuncture to help relax. Get a facial. Get a manicure or pedicure. Get a haircut or blowout. Get a pregnancy massage. Take a bubble bath.
Bring on Labor
If you’re really uncomfortable and ready for your overdue baby’s debut, there are natural things you can do to potentially jumpstart labor.
Eat something spicy.Engage in strenuous exercise that is approved by a doctor.Go for a bumpy car ride.Go for a walk around the block.Have an impromptu dance party at home.Have sex.
How to Cope
Even with these helpful distractions, a bit of discomfort and anxiety during an overdue pregnancy is understandable. To be in the best mindset for labor, try to remain as relaxed as possible. Wear comfortable clothing. Stay cool and hydrated. Try guided meditation and other mindfulness techniques to keep stress at bay and stay calm and present. Lean on your “village” for love and support, and stay in contact with your doctor if anything changes with your pregnancy.
When to Call Your Doctor
While due dates are just an estimate, it’s important to keep your medical team updated on your overdue pregnancy and call your doctor if you have any concerning pregnancy signs or symptoms, including:
ContractionsDecrease in baby’s movementsGush of fluidSpotting or bleedingSudden/severe headachePain
A Word From Verywell
While it’s natural to become anxious when a pregnancy is overdue, it’s important to prioritize activities that help you stay calm and comfortable. Self-care activities, favorite hobbies, and preparing for the birth are all great ways to stay occupied and make good use of this time. In some cases, your doctor may recommend an early delivery if you or your baby is experiencing certain health conditions including preeclampsia, placenta previa, or if there is too little or too much amniotic fluid. Connect with friends and family that you haven’t spoken to in a while. And finally, take care of yourself. This is such a special time for you and your baby. Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or massage to show yourself some love during this amazing (and tiring) milestone.
