I distinctly remember the night I conceived my first child — it was a cozy December evening beneath the twinkling lights of our Christmas tree. I had just convinced my then-husband that starting a family might take a while, so we should get the ball rolling. I felt that biological clock ticking, and we both dreamed of having several kids.
To our surprise, we were pregnant after just one try. When I excitedly visited my OBGYN, cradling my baby bump, she announced my due date: September 6th. Perfect! I dove headfirst into planning and was overjoyed.
Over the next months, I indulged in food, felt the whirlwind of hormones, and dealt with morning sickness. As my belly grew, I eagerly anticipated the baby’s gender and went on a shopping spree for striped onesies, cute little Converse shoes, and every plush toy I could find. I painted the nursery, set up the crib, and after my baby shower, washed all the tiny clothes, feeling overwhelmingly blessed. I loved showing off my bump in cute maternity outfits and was excitedly telling strangers my due date.
I envisioned bringing my son home, cleaning the house, and decorating for fall, with him peacefully sleeping in his bassinet as leaves fell outside and Spiced Cider candles flickered. Family was set to visit the weekend after Labor Day, and I wanted everything to be perfect. Looking back, I can’t help but laugh at my naivety.
As my due date came and went, I told myself, “No big deal, he’s just a few days late.” But soon, the constant phone calls began. Friends and family wanted updates on the baby’s arrival, asking when they could meet him. So, I stopped answering my phone and indulged in snacks like Doritos and cheese sticks dipped in ice cream.
I was uncomfortable — every time I stood up, sneezed, or coughed, I’d experience a little accident. I tried all the old wives’ tales: spicy foods, long walks, and even more intimate encounters with my husband, feeling irrationally concerned that my baby would be traumatized by our antics. I walked endlessly, convinced that it would help induce labor because so many people claimed it worked.
By September 16, I found myself in tears while soaking in the tub. I was exhausted, uncomfortable, and desperate for relief. The incessant trips to the bathroom and the heartburn were unbearable. I was tired of feeling like a beached whale, and no maternity clothes seemed to fit anymore. On September 18, I stepped outside in the morning chill, naked, just to cool off. I didn’t care who saw me; all I wanted was relief from the heat and discomfort of being overdue.
The truth is, being overdue is a unique kind of torment. Well-meaning advice is useless, and you’re left waiting for your child to decide it’s time to make their grand entrance. I went from being excited about my pregnancy to feeling irritated whenever someone asked if I was having twins. I even fantasized about threatening my doctor if he uttered the words “any day” one more time.
On September 19 — nearly two weeks past my due date — I had a doctor’s appointment. During my morning walk, I firmly told my baby it was time to come out and start pulling their weight. At the appointment, I bypassed the examination table and declared, “I need to have this baby now.” A few hours later, they were administering Pitocin, and my water broke shortly after.
Being pregnant past your due date is not just an emotional rollercoaster; it takes a physical toll as well. While it’s not uncommon — affecting about 40% of women, and about 5% going two weeks overdue — the experience is anything but pleasant. Although late-term pregnancies are rarely harmful, doctors often recommend inducing labor in the 41st to 42nd week to ensure everything is functioning properly.
If you find yourself in this situation, remember to hold onto your power; you can use it to your advantage later on when your child needs to do you favors. Trust me, I remind my now 15-year-old son of the trials I endured while he was still in my womb.
For those navigating similar journeys, resources like American Pregnancy’s guide provide invaluable insights. If you’re considering home insemination, check out options like the Impregnator at Home Insemination Kit or consult experts at TFP Boston Place Fertility for guidance.
In summary, the experience of an overdue pregnancy can be physically and emotionally taxing, with every day feeling like an eternity. While it may not be the joyful journey we envision at the start, it eventually leads to the incredible reward of welcoming your child into the world.