POSTTERM PREGNANCY, DO’S FOR MOTHERS

When it reachs to the final weeks of pregnancy, expectant mothers are absolutely eager to their due date. However, if the estimated due date has been passed without maternal labor signs happen, mothers should not be bewildered and worried about this. Statistically, only approximate 5% of pregnant women deliver on their due date, the residual ones mostly give birth within 2 weeks earlier or later.

So what mothers should do if their pregancy extends beyond the estimated due date. Fetal and maternal care will be continued as the same with prenatal care. Particularly, a mother needs to talk with her doctor for examing fetal health and development in order to facilitate close monitoring because the placental- fetal nutrition transport may be diminished in this period. Simultaneously,  the nature of amniotic fluid is also changed , causing possibility of meconium in amniotic fluid… adversely impact on fetal health. At this time, a  doctor will perform testing to confirm whether the fetus is healthy or not. Aditionally,  the fetal heart rate (Non-stress test) is monitored and evaluate the amniotic fluid volume or a combination betwwen Non-stress test and fetal ultrasound.
 
In some cases,  labor induction can be recommended after evaluation and prognosis given. Labor induction refers to stimulation of uterine contraction during pregnancy before labor process begins on its own for vaginal delivery.

Once fetal health condition is assessed as stable and “ready” for labor, a doctor will indicate labor induction. Nevertheless, there are some fetuses who are not ready for vaginal delivery, or fetal macrosomia …. C-section is indicated by a doctor to ensure fetal and maternal health and safety. After birthing, a pediatrician will carefully exam and evaluate neonatal health condition to plan for comprehensive care.
 
In AIH, physicians and nutritionists will monitor and provide specific recommendations for individual parturient in order to create the best care plans for parturients and babies. AIH is the pioneer international hospital in Vietnam applies a system of American standrad delivery suites - LDRP, which bring parturients and families to comfortable and convenient experience of childbirth as placing them in an unique versatile room for entire delivery process: labor- vaginal delivery – recovery – postpartum.
 
Especially, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit ( NICU) is fully equiped with standard state-of-the-art medical devices, together with leading medical experts including neonatologists, neonatal nurses, physiotherapists, pediatric nutritionists to ensure safety and excellent care for babies once birthing.