What happens if my due date comes and goes, and my baby still shows no signs of appearing? – Martha Very few pregnant women deliver on their estimated due dates. Many first-time moms find themselves waiting up to 2 weeks after their due date for their baby to arrive. If you don't go into labor within a week of your due date, your doctor may recommend a nonstress test. This monitors fetal heart rate and movement to see how the baby is doing. Talk to your doctor to find out more about this test. Sometimes moms need a little help to get their labor going. If your health or your baby's health requires it, your doctor may induce labor. This can be done by: stripping the membranes: The doctor can rupture the amniotic sac by sweeping a gloved finger over the thin membranes that connect it to the wall of the uterus. breaking your water (also called an amniotomy): The doctor makes a small hole in the amniotic sac with a special tool. giving a hormone such as prostaglandin or oxytocin Back to Articles Related Articles Are You in Labor? Here's how to tell the difference between true labor and false labor -- and when to get medical care. Read More Inducing Labor Find out why doctors may induce labor if you're past your due date, how it may be done, and how it may affect you and your baby. Read More Cesarean Sections (C-Sections) Many babies are delivered via cesarean sections. Learn why and how C-sections are done. Read More Birth Plans The reality of labor and birth may seem extremely far off - but now's the time to start planning for your baby by creating a birth plan that details your wishes. Read More Epidurals Epidurals can make giving birth more calm, controlled, and comfortable. Find out more. Read More Recovering From Delivery After giving birth, you'll notice you've changed somewhat - both physically and emotionally. Here's what to expect after labor and delivery. Read More A Week-by-Week Pregnancy Calendar Our week-by-week illustrated pregnancy calendar is a detailed guide to all the changes taking place in your baby - and in you! Read More Pregnancy & Newborn Center Advice and information for expectant and new parents. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.