When does risk of still birth increase?

Hey there,

I'm a couple of days overdue and wondering if you know when the risk of still birth starts to increase? Doc wont be inducing because I'm trying for a vbac. So wondering how long to give it before giving up on spontaneous labour.

Hi Meg, A term baby is anywhere between 38-42 weeks. An estimated due date is really just that - an estimate. So even though they give you a date you're just as likely to give birth 2 weeks before or after your EDD.
I certainly wouldn't be panicing yet - you're only a few days over :)
You can try and encourage labour by walking alot especially up stairs and having sex and doing a bit of nipple stimulation.
If your Dr is concerned you can always ask for an ultra-sound to check your placental health before making any descions regarding birth.

Hmmm, don't know about the risk of still birth...? But most hospies let you go at least 10 days over. With me, because of public holidays etc, they were going to let me go 2 weeks over, as long as I had a scan at 10 days over to make sure baby, fluid level and placenta were ok.
I didn't even have to think about it, because she arrived after 7 days. I know it is so frustrating, waiting. But hopefully bubs will decide on their own to show up for you soon! All the very best for your very rapidly approaching birth! :)

Hi Meg

stillbirth isnt something that you need to worrying about if you have had a healthy pregnancy...the risks are increased with complications throughout pregnancy and maternal risk factors (such as smoking, alcohol abuse)

your placenta functions perfectly well until about 42 weeks. After 42 weeks the placenta has reached its used by date...and starts to deteriorate...meaning it is no longer providing your baby with optimal intrauterine care

so this is why most dr's start getting a bit 'induction' orientated at around 10 days post dates...and is also why they keep a closer eye on you and the baby after your 'estimated' due date

there are plenty of natural ways to help bring labor on...which I'm sure you are aware of...I have posted a couple of times for natural induction methods

try and remain relaxed and welcoming to your baby...hope this helps

xx yogababy

Hi Meg.. I can't help with the still birth question, although what Natalie said sounds right. As for the spontaneous birthing process, Oskar was 4 days over and it all started happening without me even realising, lol. Try to keep a positive mind and visualise what your bub looks like and see the baby moving down the birth canal in the correct position and being born. You need to get comfy and close your eyes and relax and really focus. It helped me that's for sure. Oh... almost forgot.. he was a very successful VBAC. I hope you meet your bubs soon!!!