Management of postdate pregnancy.

Management of the problems associated with pregnancies that extend beyond 294 days of amenorrhea has become increasingly important in obstetrics. This article outlines some of the methods that minimize the risks to the mother, fetus, and neonate in postdate pregnancy. A brief description of the definitions, incidence, and impact of postdate pregnancy is given for a baseline on which to base management decisions. The current management techniques are then given for the following aspects: diagnosis, antepartum surveillance, timing of delivery, and intrapartum management. Finally a synopsis of research areas that may change management is given.