1. What Is Due Date Calculator?

The Due Date Calculator estimates your expected delivery date (EDD) based on your last menstrual period (LMP). This calculation follows the standard obstetric practice of adding 280 days (40 weeks) to the first day of your last menstrual period.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard due date formula:

Where:

• \( EDD \) — Estimated Due Date
• \( LMP \) — Last Menstrual Period (first day)
• \( 280 \text{ days} \) — Standard pregnancy duration (40 weeks)

Explanation: This calculation method, known as Naegele's rule, assumes a 28-day menstrual cycle and ovulation occurring on day 14. The calculator also shows your current pregnancy progress in weeks and days.

3. Importance Of Due Date Calculation

Details: Accurate due date estimation is crucial for proper prenatal care, monitoring fetal development, planning for delivery, and identifying potential preterm or post-term pregnancies. It helps healthcare providers schedule important tests and screenings at appropriate times during pregnancy.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter the first day of your last menstrual period in the date field. Make sure to use the correct date format. The calculator will provide your estimated due date and current pregnancy progress. Remember that only about 5% of babies are born on their exact due date.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is this due date calculation?
A: This method is the standard clinical approach, but only about 5% of women deliver on their exact due date. Most deliveries occur within 2 weeks before or after the estimated date.

Q2: What if I have irregular periods?
A: If you have irregular cycles, an early ultrasound (usually between 8-12 weeks) provides a more accurate due date estimation than LMP-based calculation.

Q3: Can the due date change during pregnancy?
A: Yes, healthcare providers may adjust your due date based on early ultrasound measurements, especially if there's a significant difference from the LMP-based calculation.

Q4: Why 280 days instead of 9 months?
A: Pregnancy is calculated as 40 weeks (280 days) from LMP, which is approximately 9 calendar months plus one week. This accounts for the fact that conception typically occurs about 2 weeks after LMP.

Q5: What if I know my conception date?
A: If you know your exact conception date, you can calculate due date by adding 266 days (38 weeks) to that date, as this reflects the actual fetal age.