Babies born 2 weeks or more past their due date are considered postdate or post-term births. About 10% of all babies are born more than 2 weeks past their due date.
Carrying a baby longer than 42 weeks can cause some problems for the fetus and the mother. Most pregnancies do well. Doctors conduct tests on these babies and induce labor, if necessary.
A doctor can determine if the baby is moving around in the womb and if the amount of amniotic fluid is healthy and normal. If it is determined the baby is healthy and active, the mother-to-be is usually monitored until labor begins on its own. Tests are done as reassurance that an overdue baby is OK and can remain in the womb. These tests include a nonstress test, a contraction stress test and a biophysical profile. If problems are found, labor is often induced.
