Worried About a Big Baby?

Like many women, I've watched my share of pregnancy/birth shows (like A Baby Story), and recently I've noticed that many of the moms are told at some point towards the end of their pregnancy that they could possibly have a "big" baby and should consider induction. Having a larger than normal baby can be some women's biggest fears when it comes to childbirth.

The difficulty lies in the idea that there is no way of truly knowing how big a baby will be at birth. Fundal height measurements are affected by amniotic fluid levels, baby's position and mother's body. Ultrasounds have not proven completely accurate in measuring how big a baby actually is. Even a skilled practitioner cannot be totally sure of a baby's size by palpitation (although some really like to try and guess).

I think the key to a healthy and happy birth is truly accepting the idea that women's bodies are designed to give birth. We will grow a baby that is the perfect size for us. The greatest majority of the time, all will be well with our labor and delivery if we trust our bodies to do what they are made to do without interference.

If you would like to do further reading on the subject, check out this wonderful article by a very experienced birth doula.