Full term at 36 weeks?!

Mt2G1012

My doc told me at my appt this week that I was full term on Friday (36 weeks) and they don't stop labor after Friday anymore.  I thought the standard was 37 weeks.  Obviously some babies are ok earlier than 40 weeks, but I want her to stay as long as needed for her to be healthy.  36 weeks seems early.  Is it?

lngcdr2009

You're not technically full term until 37 weeks, but they will not stop your labor after 36 weeks. At that point the baby is fully developed and should be able to handle life outside of the uterus.

Soap1

Every doctor is different.  Some won't stop labor after 34 weeks, some 36 weeks.  For the MOST part, if your baby decides she is ready to come at 36 weeks, then she probably is!  The likelihood of going to the NICU is generally pretty small at that point.

hewinked

When I was pregnant with DD, they told me they don't stop labor starting at 35 weeks.  When I just went to the doctor this week, they told me they would no longer stop labor at this point.  DD was born at 34w6d and was big, strong, and healthy, but not all 35 weekers are.  My friend was induced 2 days after her due date, so her LO was born at 40w3d, and he had a hard time sucking and eating at first.  It really all depends.  Since you've made it to 36 weeks, you're at a good point, so try not to worry! 

ktwilley

I had my 36 week appointment today, and my Dr. also told me that they will not stop labor now if it happens. I am not emotionally ready for this baby to come out yet, so I hope he stays in a few more weeks! 

wife1014

In my practice, I think they won't stop labor after 35 weeks.  Personally, I don't consider full term until 40 weeks.

TwoSkis

My OBs wouldn't stop labor after 36 weeks.  Their general opinion was that if labor occurred, it was likely for a reason, and the baby would be better off outside.