1. What is the Due Date Calculation?

The due date calculation based on conception date adds 266 days (38 weeks) to the known conception date. This is the most accurate method when the conception date is known, as it accounts for the actual gestational period from conception to birth.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• 266 days represents the average gestation period from conception
• This equals exactly 38 weeks of pregnancy

Explanation: The calculation is based on the biological fact that human pregnancy typically lasts 266 days from conception to birth.

3. Importance of Accurate Due Date

Details: Knowing the accurate due date helps in prenatal care planning, monitoring fetal development, and determining if pregnancy continues past term. It's especially important for high-risk pregnancies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the exact known conception date. If conception date is estimated, consider using a last menstrual period (LMP) calculator instead for potentially more accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why 266 days specifically?
A: Research shows the median time from conception to birth is 266 days (38 weeks), though normal pregnancies can vary by ±2 weeks.

Q2: How does this compare to LMP-based calculations?
A: LMP calculations assume conception occurred 14 days after period start, adding 280 days (40 weeks). Conception date method is more accurate when conception date is known.

Q3: What if I don't know exact conception date?
A: Use an LMP-based calculator or ultrasound dating for estimation. Conception date method requires knowing the exact date of conception.

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

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: When conception date is known exactly, this is the most accurate due date prediction method, though individual pregnancies may still vary by up to 2 weeks.