for all of those that had placental issues - I understand the fears there - when Imogen was born her placenta was an absolute mess - it was infarcted in multiple places and due to her lack of detectable movement and it's hideous state she had not long to go before it was too late... So I do get that placentas don't always last...

In a healthy mama, with growth = dates (obviously the correct EDD is needed here!) the "normal" gestation is 37-42 weeks + or minus a week! If you are from a scandanavian country or have this origin you statistically will gestate up to 2 weeks longer than your sisters from other parts. (I am one of those freaky folk who looove interesting stats! )

Movement, fetal growth an some pathology can help track how that placenta is functioning. In a well Mama with the aforementioned going well it is highly likely that your placenta is motoring along fine. This is why that recent evidence suggests that women should be closely watched post dates but not necessarily induced due to the very large variation in "normal"...

Leasha - the key to a fabulous birthing experience is to engage a practitioner that you trust, who can educate you, who you can learn from. You are having a baby - the relationship needs to be very very pure for the best outcome.
Misleading a care provider is disaster - you need a clear relationship. There are fabulous models of care and practitioners who trust in birth, women's bodies and marry this with awesome knowledge and professionalism...

If you need some names - I'd gladly steer you in the direction of homebirth midwife or obstetrician who would honour your values in the Sunshine Coast area...