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Postdatism
is pregnancy of ≥ 42 wk.
Because dating is established by ultrasonography in most pregnancies, postdatism has become less common. In prolonged pregnancies (> 41 wk), risk of abnormal fetal growth, oligohydramnios, meconium in amniotic fluid, and fetal death is increased. Most experts recommend that nonstress testing and assessment of amniotic fluid volume or a biophysical profile (eg, assessment of amniotic fluid volume, fetal movement, breathing, and heart rate) be done at 41 wk. If either is abnormal, delivery is required. Many obstetricians induce labor (see Abnormalities and Complications of Labor and Delivery: Induction of Labor) in all pregnancies > 41 wk.
Last full review/revision November 2005
Content last modified November 2005
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