1. What is Gestational Age?

Gestational age is the common term used during pregnancy to describe how far along the pregnancy is. It is measured in weeks and days from the first day of the woman's last menstrual period (LMP).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the gestational age formula:

Where:

• \( Weeks \) — Number of completed weeks of gestation
• \( Days \) — Additional days beyond completed weeks (0-6)

Explanation: This calculation converts the combination of weeks and days into a decimal representation of total gestational age in weeks.

3. Importance of Gestational Age Calculation

Details: Accurate gestational age calculation is crucial for monitoring fetal development, scheduling prenatal tests, determining expected delivery date, and assessing fetal growth parameters.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of completed weeks (0-50) and additional days (0-6). The calculator will provide the total gestational age in decimal weeks format.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is gestational age important?
A: Gestational age helps healthcare providers track fetal development, schedule appropriate prenatal testing, and determine if the baby is growing properly.

Q2: How is gestational age different from fetal age?
A: Gestational age is measured from the first day of the last menstrual period, while fetal age (conceptual age) is measured from the actual conception date, typically about 2 weeks later.

Q3: What is considered full term?
A: A pregnancy is considered full term between 39 weeks 0 days and 40 weeks 6 days. Early term is 37 weeks 0 days through 38 weeks 6 days.

Q4: How accurate is gestational age calculation?
A: When based on early ultrasound (first trimester), gestational age is accurate within 5-7 days. Later in pregnancy, accuracy decreases.

Q5: Can gestational age be adjusted?
A: Yes, if early ultrasound measurements differ significantly from LMP-based calculation by more than 5-7 days, providers may adjust the estimated due date.