Postterm pregnancy

Postterm pregnancy
Synonyms	Postmature pregnancy, prolonged pregnancy
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Decreased fetal movement, oligohydramnios, meconium-stained amniotic fluid
Complications	Fetal distress, macrosomia, shoulder dystocia, stillbirth
Onset	After 42 weeks of gestation
Duration	Until delivery
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, but risk factors include first pregnancy, previous postterm pregnancy, obesity, male fetus
Risks	Advanced maternal age, obesity, nulliparity
Diagnosis	Ultrasound to confirm gestational age, non-stress test, biophysical profile
Differential diagnosis	Incorrect dating of pregnancy, oligohydramnios, fetal growth restriction
Prevention	Accurate dating of pregnancy, induction of labor at 41-42 weeks
Treatment	Induction of labor, monitoring of fetal well-being
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with appropriate management
Frequency	5-10% of pregnancies
Deaths	N/A

Postterm pregnancy is a condition where a pregnancy lasts 42 weeks or more. This condition can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby.

Definition

A pregnancy is considered postterm if it lasts 42 weeks or more. This is calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period.

Causes

The exact cause of postterm pregnancy is unknown. However, some factors that may contribute to this condition include a previous postterm pregnancy, being a first-time mother, and male fetus.

Risks

Postterm pregnancy can increase the risk of certain complications. These include labor problems, cesarean section, infection, meconium aspiration, and stillbirth.

Diagnosis

Postterm pregnancy is diagnosed based on the date of the last menstrual period. If this date is uncertain, an ultrasound may be used to estimate the gestational age of the fetus.

Management

Management of postterm pregnancy may include induction of labor, fetal monitoring, and cesarean section if necessary.

See also

• Pregnancy
• Gestational age
• Ultrasound
• Induction of labor
• Cesarean section