By week 40, you've reached your due date. Your baby could be coming any day. Most babies born after their due
dates are healthy. But you may have tests to make sure everything is okay. If you feel stressed, you could try
a meditation exercise, such as guided imagery. It may help you relax.
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If you are past 41 weeks, your doctor may measure the amount of fluid that surrounds your baby. They |
If you don't start labor on your own by 41 or 42 weeks, your doctor may want to start (induce) labor. |
To start (induce) your labor, your doctor may do any of these things.
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Place a narrow tube with a small balloon on the end (balloon catheter) into |
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Sweep the membranes (separate the lining of the amniotic sac from the |
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"Break your water" (rupture the amniotic sac). This may be done if |
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Use medicines. They may be used to soften the cervix or start |
How to do guided imagery
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Close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Picture a peaceful setting, such as a beach or a |
Take a few minutes to breathe slowly and feel the calm. When you are ready, slowly take yourself back |
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results
and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Current as of: July 10, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of
this information.
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