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 from the first day of the woman's last menstrual period (LMP) to the current date.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• Current Date — Today's date or any specified date
• LMP — First day of the last menstrual period
• 7 — Number of days in a week

Explanation: The calculation counts the number of days between LMP and current date, then converts to weeks and days.

3. Importance of Gestational Age Calculation

Details: Accurate gestational age determination is crucial for proper prenatal care, timing of tests, monitoring fetal growth, and determining the due date (estimated date of delivery).

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the first day of your last menstrual period and the current date (defaults to today). The calculator will display gestational age in weeks and days.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if I don't know my LMP?
A: If LMP is unknown, an ultrasound measurement in early pregnancy can estimate gestational age.

Q2: How accurate is this method?
A: This method assumes a regular 28-day cycle. Accuracy decreases with irregular cycles.

Q3: What's the difference between gestational age and fetal age?
A: Gestational age is about 2 weeks more than fetal (conceptual) age, as it counts from LMP rather than conception.

Q4: When should I see a doctor?
A: Schedule your first prenatal visit when you get a positive pregnancy test, typically around 8 weeks gestational age.

Q5: How is this used for due date calculation?
A: The estimated due date is typically 40 weeks from the first day of the LMP (Naegele's rule).