1. What is the Due Date Calculator?

The Due Date Calculator estimates the expected delivery date based on the known conception date. It adds 266 days (38 weeks) to the conception date, which is the average length of human gestation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• Conception Date — The known or estimated date of conception
• 266 days — The average duration of human pregnancy from conception

Explanation: This calculation provides the most accurate due date when the conception date is known, as it doesn't rely on the less precise last menstrual period method.

3. Importance of Accurate Due Date Calculation

Details: Knowing the accurate due date helps in proper prenatal care scheduling, monitoring fetal development, and planning for delivery. It's particularly important for high-risk pregnancies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the known or estimated conception date. The calculator will add 266 days (38 weeks) to determine the estimated due date.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why 266 days instead of 280 days?
A: 280 days (40 weeks) is counted from the last menstrual period (LMP). Since conception typically occurs about 2 weeks after LMP, the actual gestation from conception is 266 days.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: When the exact conception date is known, this is the most accurate method. However, only about 5% of women deliver on their exact due date.

Q3: What if I don't know my conception date?
A: If you don't know the conception date, use a calculator based on your last menstrual period or early ultrasound measurements.

Q4: Does this account for leap years?
A: Yes, the calculator automatically accounts for leap years in the date calculation.

Q5: Can the due date change later in pregnancy?
A: While the initial calculation remains valid, healthcare providers may adjust the due date based on fetal growth measurements during ultrasounds.