You may have your haemoglobin (iron level) rechecked. This is a blood test. If you are rhesus negative, you will already have received information in the post about your blood group and depending on your baby’s blood group you will be offered an injection of Anti-D. It may be necessary to do other specialist blood tests at this stage of the pregnancy, for example, if you develop high blood pressure or a body itch. Always talk to your midwife or doctor if you have any worries. They will be able to advise you and keep you informed of your progress.
If your due date arrives and you have not gone into labour, your pregnancy is now termed ‘post mature’ or simply, overdue. Nearly half of all pregnant women are still pregnant at 40 weeks but most will go into labour in the coming week. You will be seen again in the antenatal clinic at 41 weeks if you still haven’t gone into labour.
The doctor will discuss your care plan with you. If by any chance you can’t make it to an antenatal appointment, please email your clinic so that another appointment can be scheduled. Towards the end of the pregnancy, your appointments will be more frequent. In the last few weeks, your GP, midwife or hospital doctor will probably see you on a weekly basis.
