Post term pregnancy is defined as reaching how many weeks?

• A. 39 weeks
• B. 35 weeks
• C. 42 weeks
• D. 37 weeks

Answer: (C)

Post-term pregnancy means the pregnancy has continued beyond 42 completed weeks of gestation. This threshold is used because, after 42 weeks, the placenta can age and become less effective, increasing risks for the baby and mother such as oligohydramnios, fetal distress, meconium-stained fluid, and higher chance of cesarean delivery. Therefore, reaching 42 weeks or more defines post-term.

The other options don’t fit because 39 weeks and 37 weeks are within the full-term window (late-term/term), while 35 weeks is before term and considered preterm.