Pregnancy Risks -- Prolonged Pregnancy
In about one out of 10 pregnancies, delivery does not occur before the end of the 42nd week. This is called a post-term or prolonged pregnancy. In many of these cases, this may happen because your doctor may not be exactly sure when your pregnancy began.
Your doctor will try to find out how well developed your baby is. He or she may decide it is safe to continue waiting for labor to begin naturally. OR if your doctor thinks it isn't safe to wait, he or she may induce labor.
There are several methods that can be used to induce labor. Your doctor will discuss these with you if necessary.
