36 weeks used to be full term, now it's 39? Wth bobby!

[Naturally_Nea]

Why does is seem like the length of time to carry a baby is getting longer? I could have sworn 10~15 yrs ago full term was anything after 36 weeks, baby can come out. I've read preterm is 37 weeks, full term is 39 weeks, past term is 42 weeks but it's completely ok to go that far. This is insane! Doesn't the baby start to poop  inside if in there too long which is just as harmful?  

[nickizzy]

When I had my first child 14 yrs ago 38 weeks was considered full term and she was born spot on 40 wks would have been considered over due. Now 37 weeks in most countries is full term in development meaning if bubs comes naturally from this point it's considered safe but in terms of induction they wait till 39 weeks mainly also due to dates can be out by 2 weeks as they are only a rough guess on size at first ultrasound and going by lmp and guessing your ovulation. So if bubs comes naturally at 37 weeks she considered term but most docs unless medically necessary won't induce until after 39

[jesshat]

I just had a baby in April 37 is full term. That's why if ur having problems they try to get you to 37 weeks if they can. I had to have my son at 37 weeks because of Gestational. But all Dr's probably have different thoughts on it.

[NinaBoo69]

37 weeks is considered full term where I live too and the doctors won't induce until a week after you miss your due date at 41 weeks

[love_being_his_mrs]

We better understand the risks with premature birth now ;)

C section for non medical reasons have skyrocketed, and Dr's were using those guidelines to go on their vacations or simply get an easy start on the weekend and now our research has shown how dangerous it is. So it's a good thing! Makes sense it would change as we learn more about pregnancy and gestation length.

[RO2015]

36 weeks is still considered full term where I live

[Naturally_Nea]

I'm just worried if I choose to have another baby in 5 yrs the length of the will be extended lol. My sister always carried her babies until 42 weeks which I've always thought was long but they've always seem to pop her bag, she's never had a c-section or induction. I've given birth 2x at 36 1/2 weeks, 1 induction, 1 popped my bag...but I'm praying this little boy stays put til at least 39 weeks. Thanks for the info ladies. Good luck to you both as well!!

[GeekMom1213]

37 weeks is EARLY term, 39 weeks is full term. And meconium in utero can happen during a wide range of time - it has a lot more to do with fetal stress than gestational age. And although anecdotes do not equal data, I personally know lots of healthy kiddos who were born post-term, including the daughter of a friend who made her grand entrance at 43w4d.
The change in terminology is due to so many elective inductions being performed too early and causing a huge increase in NICU stays, respiratory issues, low birth weights, and other complications. Though 37 weeks may be long enough for most people to have healthy babies, it still seriously increases the risk that something might go wrong. Waiting until at least 39 weeks is best for babies, period. The ACOG and March of Dimes are simply reflecting the research by changing the definitions to better fit best practice guidelines.

[Peachy1584]

37 weeks is term. Baby should be monitored after 40 as placenta deteriorates. Of course many women are off on dates as well and u/s is not always accurate. Best of luck x