IVF dates v's scan dates & induction...

[embiemomma]

So I'm almost 38 weeks from a FET back in July, I've had an uncomplicated midwife led pregnancy. My due date from scans is 29th march, but my IVF date is 6 days later than this. My question is, which should I go by when considering sweeps/induction? My midwife has offered a sweep at 39 and 40 weeks if I haven't gone into labour, but in my head I'm not even full term by then! It's probably worth mentioning I feel well and not too uncomfortable and am happy to wait longer, just not sure what the right thing to do is. Interested in peoples thoughts and experiences... Thank you 😊

[MonkAK]

Hi embiemomma. How exciting - not long to go now until you get to meet your little one! I am only 17 weeks, also from an FET, but I remember when I had my first midwife appointment, she said that IVF pregnancies were great for her because she could pinpoint the exact due date even before the first scan and there was no arguing the date of conception. They have also gone with my IVF dates at my scans etc. However, I guess some babies could just cook quicker than others. Have another chat with your midwife about it if you are unsure or worried. Good luck! Xxx

[MommaBear16]

Hi embiemomma - I can't offer any advice but I wanted to wish you the best of luck with everything. Like MonkAK says, chat to your midwife and see what she recommends. So exciting, I can't wait for your next update x x x

[72cloud9]

I don't have advice for u but wanted to say congratulations and to wish u well with the upcoming birth xxx

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi embiemomma. My goodness me - 38/40wks already! Being an ex midwife myself, I would go by your last dating scan and measurements. Your baby is ready to be born any time now, and is just growing. There's only 6 days in it, so nothing to worry about either way. Your midwife will check everything again soon, so try not to worry. Good luck with the birth, and I do hope it is straightforward, which I have no doubt it will be. Thinking of you. Diane

[rainbowbright]

Hi Embiemomma,

I'm due on 29th April, after a positive 1st round of IVF in early August. I too struggled initially with the whole dating thing, but have now got used to the fact that clinicians go by the dating scan and have no concerns about when my little boy is due.

However, I have been a Consultant-led case, I believe purely on the basis that I have had an IVF pregnancy rather than anything else, and they tell me that I won't be allowed to go overdue as there is some research suggesting that IVF pregnancy is higher risk. I assume I'll be induced on D-day if I haven't already gone into labour.

Good luck with everything x

[jenny34]

Hi, for some reason my computer wont let me see any of the other replies to this post so apologies if I repeat what has already been said!

How exciting! Wishing you lots of luck as you get closer to meeting your little one!

I just wanted to share my experience. I too was given due dates which were sooner than my IVF-predicted dates - the hospital said they go off growth scans rather than IVF dates as the pregnancy progresses, as all babies grow at different rates etc. So when I went in for my sweep I too thought I was not at full term either!

I had 2 sweeps which did naaathing, although It may have been because my cervix was "posterior" so they couldn't reach it (sorry for the TMI). I was then admitted to hosp and induction started on the MOnday morning - I didn't have her until the THurs night! I realise this is a very extreme example of how long induction takes, and it doesn't usually take this long, but I (like you) did not believe I was full term and she just wasn't ready to come out!

I'm now 18 weeks pregnant with my 2nd (very lucky!) and I'm going to try not to be induced this time round. They've already brought my due date forward, and I'm booked in for a sweep - which is fine - but after that I'm going to try (if they will let me) to just wait it out. I kind of wish last time I'd waited longer and let her come in her own time.

Just wanted to share my experience - whatever/however it happens you wont care or mind once you've got your little miracle in your arms!!

Wishing you lots of love and luck xxxxxxxx

[embiemomma]

thank you for all your advice, I think i will opt for a sweep at 40 weeks - as Diane said 6 days is nothing and having a sweep or two is better than induction. I have heard others say IVF pregnancies shouldn't go over, but my midwife hasn't heard this and it's difficult to find evidence (I also can't think of any reason why!) I think it varies depending who is looking after your care. I've had a completely problem free pregnancy so not too worried about that. I'd rather not be induced! Fingers crossed I go into labour naturally! 🤞the countdown is on! Next post will hopefully be an announcement! X