Late term
Late term describes pregnancies that have reached 41 weeks 0 days through 41 weeks 6 days. At this stage, the baby is fully developed but the placenta may begin to work less efficiently, and the risk of complications such as meconium aspiration, cord compression, and stillbirth gradually increases. Most obstetricians in Singapore will recommend induction of labour somewhere between 41 and 42 weeks if spontaneous labour has not begun. Monitoring becomes more frequent in this period, typically including non-stress tests and amniotic fluid assessments. If your pregnancy reaches late term, stay in close contact with your care team and report any reduction in fetal movement immediately.
What This Means for You
Understanding Late term is an important part of your 41w0d-41w6d journey. During pregnancy, your care team will use this term regularly. Being familiar with it means you can ask better questions and feel more confident at your antenatal appointments.
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KKH and NUH typically offer or recommend induction by 41 to 41 weeks and 6 days. Evidence suggests that induction at this point, rather than waiting further, reduces the risk of complications without increasing caesarean rates.
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Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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