I’m overdue

Your due date has come and gone. And yet your baby’s showing no signs of making an appearance. The last few days of waiting can leave you tired and anxious. Here’s what you can do to fill the hours while you wait.

You might be bursting with excitement and ready to try anything to bring on labour but do try and relax – good things come to those who wait. Now is the perfect opportunity to do all the little things you haven’t got around to yet. Take a look at our tips on passing the time and getting ready for your baby’s arrival.

How to cope with an overdue pregnancy

No matter how hard you try, sitting on the sofa, staring at your belly and willing your baby to come out isn’t going to work! The best thing you can do is relax but if you are feeling energetic, here are a few things you could do to pass the time:

• Visit friends in the local area or go for little walks nearby. Keep your mobile handy!
• Unless you’re living with a chef, your freezer will be a life-saver once your baby comes. Make sure it’s well stocked with tasty, home-cooked food while you have the chance.
• Politely ask friends and family not to keep calling for hourly updates; tell them you’ll call them when it happens!

• Use the extra time you now have to spend quality time with your husband doing the things you both enjoy. You might not get the chance to do them again for a while!
• Have a spring clean, no matter what time of year it might be. Tidy, sort and clear the decks now and you’ll be thankful for the lack of clutter later on.
• Give your wardrobe the once-over. Make sure you’ve got plenty of comfy tops and bottoms and dig out all the clothes you’d like to wear once you’re bump-free.
• And if all that sounds like too much hard work, save your energy for labour. Put your feet up, watch your favourite film and doze off if you feel like it!

If you think your labour has started, but you’re not quite sure, call your doctor and see what they think.