[Recent management of postterm pregnancy from a survey of 422 institutions].

A survey of the management of postterm pregnancy was conducted among the institutions of Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Results were as follows. The incidence of postterm pregnancy has been reduced as compared with that in 10 years ago. An ultrasound examination used to ascertain the expected date of confinement (EDC) has highly contributed to the reduction of postterm pregnancy. Estriol determination, non-stress test and ultrasonography are commonly used to assess the fetal well-being of postterm pregnancy. Intervention has been mainly performed by use of uterine contractive drugs (prostaglandins, oxytocin). For the management of postterm pregnancy, proper assessment of EDC must be recommended by BBT and ultrasonography. Induction of labor may take place if the cervix is favorable or fetal compromise is evident by biophysical and biochemical testing.