Post Term Infant Care: Understanding the Importance
– Postmaturity refers to babies born after 42 weeks of pregnancy
– Very few babies are born at 42 weeks or later
– It is not known why some pregnancies last longer than others
– Getting an ultrasound in the first trimester is the most accurate way to determine the date of pregnancy
– Mothers who have had a post-term pregnancy before are more likely to experience postmaturity again
– Symptoms of postmaturity include dry, loose, peeling skin; overgrown nails; large amount of hair on the head; visible creases on palms and soles of feet; small amount of fat on the body; green, brown, or yellow coloring of the skin from baby passing stool in the womb; and being more alert and “wide-eyed”
– Diagnosis is based on the baby’s physical appearance and the length of the pregnancy
– Tests such as ultrasound, nonstress testing, and checking the amount of amniotic fluid may be done
– Treatment may involve starting labor early depending on the baby’s health and any complications, monitoring the baby’s heart rate during labor, and potentially requiring a cesarean delivery
– Special care for post-term babies may include checking for breathing problems and blood tests for low blood sugar.