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:

• EDD — Estimated Due Date (40 weeks from LMP)
• Current Date — Today's date or any date you want to calculate for

Explanation: The calculation works backward from the due date to determine how many weeks of pregnancy have been completed.

3. Importance of Gestational Age Calculation

Details: Knowing the gestational age helps healthcare providers monitor fetal development, schedule appropriate tests, and determine if the baby's growth is on track.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the estimated due date (EDD) and the current date (defaults to today). The calculator will show the current gestational age in weeks and days remaining until the due date.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How accurate is gestational age based on EDD?
A: It's generally accurate if the EDD was calculated from an early ultrasound. Last menstrual period dating can be less accurate if cycles are irregular.

Q2: What is considered full term?
A: Between 37 weeks 0 days and 41 weeks 6 days. Babies born before 37 weeks are considered preterm.

Q3: Can gestational age be more than 40 weeks?
A: Yes, pregnancies can go up to 42 weeks, after which they're considered post-term.

Q4: What if I don't know my exact due date?
A: An early ultrasound (first trimester) provides the most accurate dating. Without that, the LMP method is used.

Q5: Why is gestational age important for prenatal care?
A: It helps determine timing for important tests, monitors fetal growth, and guides decisions about delivery if the pregnancy goes post-term.