Download The Last Weeks of Pregnancy

The Last Weeks of Pregnancy and Scheduling your Delivery
The last weeks of your pregnancy are very important for the health, growth and development of your
baby. The following information is for women who are thinking about scheduling the birth of their
baby. Delivery may be done either by inducing (bringing on) labor or by planned cesarean section.
Unless problems develop, it is best for mom and babies to stay pregnant for at least 39-40 weeks.
How does the doctor predict my due date?
Usually your due date is measured from your last menstrual period. Your due date will be 40 weeks
from the first day of your last menstrual period. It can also be figured out from an early ultrasound
or from the date you actually got pregnant.
When am I considered full term?
Once you reach 37 weeks, your baby is considered full term. If you go into labor on your own after
37 wks, then there should be no concerns about early delivery or an immature baby. However, this
is only true if you go into labor on your own, not if you are induced or have a planned cesarean
section.
At what gestational age is it “safe” to schedule a delivery?
If there are medical problems with you or with the baby, it may be necessary to have your baby
early. If this happens, your doctor will discuss this with you. But if there are no problems and you
just want to plan or schedule your baby’s delivery, wait until 39 weeks.
What happens between 37 weeks and my due date?
Babies born too early may have more health problems later in life. Staying pregnant until 39 wks
gives your baby the time he needs to grow and develop.
 The liver and lungs continue to develop. Babies born between 37 and 39 weeks have a
higher chance of breathing problems, liver immaturity resulting in jaundice, and problems
controlling their blood sugars.
 Babies continue to gain weight. This extra weight helps them to control their body
temperature and stay warm.
 There are fewer concerns about infection.
 The brain continues to mature. This means the baby will be more alert and can stay awake
long enough to eat will. The baby can suck and swallow better and will do better at breast
feeding.
Remember, there are a lot of important things happening in the last 3-4 weeks of your pregnancy.
You and your doctor may be planning an induction or a cesarean section. If there are no medical
problems requiring early delivery, we will WAIT until at least 39 weeks to deliver your baby.
For more information, please visit the March of Dimes website, www.marchofdimes.com, about
pregnancy and birth.