1. What is Pregnancy Duration Calculation?

Pregnancy duration calculation determines how long you have been pregnant based on your last menstrual period (LMP) and current date. This is the standard method used by healthcare providers to estimate gestational age.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the pregnancy duration formula:

Where:

• \( Current Date \) — Today's date or any specified date
• \( LMP \) — First day of your last menstrual period

Explanation: Pregnancy is traditionally calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period, which is approximately 2 weeks before conception actually occurs.

3. Importance of Pregnancy Dating

Details: Accurate pregnancy dating is crucial for monitoring fetal development, scheduling prenatal tests, determining due date, and making important healthcare decisions throughout pregnancy.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the first day of your last menstrual period and current date. You can choose to see results in days or weeks. Ensure LMP date is before current date.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is pregnancy calculated from LMP instead of conception?
A: LMP is used because most women know when their last period started, while conception timing is often uncertain. This provides a standardized dating method.

Q2: How accurate is LMP-based dating?
A: LMP dating is generally accurate for women with regular cycles. Ultrasound dating may be more precise, especially if cycles are irregular or LMP is uncertain.

Q3: What if I don't remember my LMP exactly?
A: Provide your best estimate. Early ultrasound (before 14 weeks) can provide more accurate dating if LMP is uncertain.

Q4: How does this relate to due date calculation?
A: Due date is typically calculated as LMP + 280 days (40 weeks). This calculator shows current duration from LMP.

Q5: What about IVF pregnancies?
A: For IVF pregnancies, dating is typically based on embryo transfer date rather than LMP for greater accuracy.