How to Deal With the Late Pregnancy Waiting Game

Going crazy waiting for baby to come? Sorry to say, there’s not much you can do about it.

Tricks to trigger labor such as walking, having sex, eating spicy food and mopping the kitchen floor are harmless—but most often ineffective. Other strategies (think herbal supplements, nipple stimulation and castor oil) can work, but might bring on killer contractions that can be dangerous for baby and super-painful for you. Don’t try anything without your midwife or doctor’s advice. Most doctors will recommend inducing labor by 41 or 42 weeks, so the end is in sight.

You’ve heard it before, but we’ll say it again: Use this time to take care of you, before you have to take care of baby. Sleep, read, go to the movies—anything that distracts you from the Big Waiting Game. Oh, and it’s a good idea to turn off the ringer on your phone and let voice mail take the calls. Nothing’s more annoying right now than 101 calls asking where that baby is.

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.