If one more person asks me if my baby has arrived, I might just lose it. Alright, I won’t actually resort to violence, but seriously, people. It’s one thing when it’s a message or a phone call—after all, I’ve told everyone I’ll keep them updated. I’m not exactly known for giving birth in secret and leaving my friends and family in the dark.
What’s even more infuriating is when someone asks me this in person. I’m tempted to respond with, “Are you really that clueless?” I mean, look at my enormous 41-week belly. Is there any sign of a baby?
And then there’s the dreaded question, “How are you feeling?” How do you think I’m feeling?! I’m massive, uncomfortable, sleep-deprived, constipated, battling severe heartburn, and just want this baby out! Do you need more details?
To add to my frustration, people feel the need to share their “expert” advice on how to naturally induce labor. As if I haven’t been trying every trick in the book! Spicy food? Check. Long walks? I’ve been walking the zoo and mall daily for the past two weeks. And let’s not even get into the other suggestions. Between caring for my two toddlers and managing my exhaustion, I’ve squeezed in what I can.
Going past my due date feels utterly defeating. I know people mean well, but I just can’t handle the questions anymore. It’s disheartening to think that I’m still waiting to hold my newborn, that I’m still pregnant after my due date has come and gone.
I’ve heard the phrase, “Babies come when they’re ready,” countless times by now, and I want to tell those who say it to just stop. For the third time, I’ve set myself up for disappointment. I’m still waiting to snuggle that little bundle of joy I’ve been anticipating for 40 long weeks.
The lead-up to my due date was filled with mounting excitement, especially during the last week. I kept waking up thinking, “Today is the day.” But each day ended the same—no baby, just more discouragement.
Recent doctor visits haven’t exactly been encouraging either. At my 40-week checkup, I was only 1 cm dilated and 20% effaced, which only added to my worries about when this pregnancy might finally end. I understand that every pregnancy is unique, and dilation can vary significantly, but I was hoping for better news.
I know that due dates are merely estimates, not guarantees. They’re calculated by adding 280 days to the first day of your last menstrual cycle, which, honestly, I can’t even remember. This is my third pregnancy in three years, and between breastfeeding and my sporadic cycle, it feels like I haven’t seen my period in ages.
The conception date is another key factor, but honestly, amidst the chaos of parenting two toddlers, I’d be hard-pressed to pinpoint when that moment happened. The fact that my husband and I found time for intimacy amidst our hectic lives still surprises me.
Even with all the medical technology available, predicting a due date is still just an educated guess. In fact, only about 4% of births happen exactly on the due date. With so many variables at play, it’s hard not to feel disappointed when things don’t go as planned.
Looking back, both of my previous pregnancies went three days past their due dates. I thought I was mentally prepared for this one to be no different, but reality has proven me wrong.
You might think that a few extra days or even a week isn’t a big deal compared to the 40 weeks I’ve already endured, but now every minute feels like an eternity.
I keep reminding myself that I won’t be pregnant forever. Ultimately, the health of both me and my baby is what truly matters. Soon enough, I’ll be holding my little one in my arms, and eventually, the due date will fade from memory, replaced by the birthdate of my child. If you’re looking for more information about pregnancy, check out this excellent resource from the CDC.
For more insights on home insemination and pregnancy, you can also explore our article on home insemination kits and how they can help, as well as this informative post about cervical insemination.