1. What is Adjusted Gestational Age?

Adjusted gestational age is used for premature infants to account for their early birth. It provides a more accurate assessment of developmental milestones by considering both the actual age since birth and the weeks of prematurity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the adjusted age formula:

Where:

• \( \text{Gestational Age} \) — Current postmenstrual age in weeks
• \( \text{Weeks at Birth} \) — Gestational age at birth in weeks
• 40 — Standard full-term gestational age in weeks

Explanation: The formula adjusts the infant's age by accounting for how many weeks early they were born compared to a full-term pregnancy (40 weeks).

3. Importance of Adjusted Age

Details: Adjusted age is crucial for proper developmental assessment of preterm infants. It helps healthcare providers determine if developmental progress is appropriate when accounting for prematurity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the current gestational age (postmenstrual age) in weeks and the gestational age at birth in weeks. Both values should be between 20-45 weeks.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long should adjusted age be used?
A: Typically until 2-3 years corrected age, though some developmental assessments may use it longer for extremely preterm infants.

Q2: What's the difference between chronological and adjusted age?
A: Chronological age is time since birth, while adjusted age accounts for prematurity by subtracting the weeks born early.

Q3: When should I stop using adjusted age?
A: Most children catch up developmentally by age 2-3, but consult your pediatrician for individual guidance.

Q4: Does this apply to growth charts too?
A: Yes, premature infants should be plotted on growth charts using adjusted age until at least 24 months.

Q5: How does this differ for multiple births?
A: The same calculation applies regardless of whether the infant was a singleton or multiple birth.