Due Date Calculator
Calculate Your Due Date
Days from the start of one period to the start of the next
What is a Due Date Calculator?
A due date calculator is a tool that estimates when a pregnant woman might give birth based on her last menstrual period (LMP), conception date, ultrasound measurements, or IVF transfer date. The due date, also called the estimated date of delivery (EDD), is typically about 40 weeks from the first day of the last menstrual period. This calculator also estimates the conception date, current gestational age, and important milestones throughout the pregnancy.
Due Date Calculation Methods
Based on Last Menstrual Period
This is the most common method, based on Naegele's rule: adding 280 days (40 weeks) to the first day of the last menstrual period. Adjustments are made for cycles that are longer or shorter than the standard 28 days.
$$\text{预产期} = \text{最后月经第一天} + 280\text{天}$$
Based on Conception Date
If the conception date is known, the due date can be calculated by adding 266 days (38 weeks). Conception typically occurs at or within 24 hours after ovulation.
$$\text{预产期} = \text{受孕日期} + 266\text{天}$$
Based on Ultrasound
Early ultrasound measurements can determine fetal size to establish gestational age. First-trimester (before 13 weeks) ultrasounds are generally the most accurate. This method is particularly useful for women who don't recall their last period or have irregular cycles.
Based on IVF Transfer Date
For pregnancies conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF), the due date can be calculated from the embryo transfer date. Depending on the age of the embryo at transfer (typically 3 or 5 days), the due date is calculated by adding 266 days to the conception date.
$$\text{预产期} = \text{胚胎移植日期} + 266\text{天} - \text{胚胎年龄}$$
Pregnancy Trimesters
Pregnancy is typically divided into three trimesters, each lasting about 13-14 weeks, with different developmental milestones and changes:
First Trimester (0-13 weeks)
From the first day of the last period through the end of week 13. This is the critical period for organ formation, and the mother may experience morning sickness, fatigue, and mood changes.
Second Trimester (14-27 weeks)
From week 14 through week 27. Many women find this the most comfortable trimester, with early symptoms subsiding and energy increasing. The baby continues to grow and develop, and the mother usually begins to feel movement.
Third Trimester (28-40 weeks)
From week 28 until delivery. The baby grows rapidly and prepares for birth. The mother may experience back pain, trouble sleeping, and swollen ankles.
Factors Affecting Due Dates
While due date calculators provide reasonable estimates, the following factors may influence the actual delivery date:
- First-time mothers often deliver later than their due date
- Only about 5% of women deliver on their due date, with most delivering within two weeks before or after
- Irregular menstrual cycles can affect calculations based on last period
- Certain medical conditions may lead to early delivery or scheduled delivery
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the due date important?
The due date helps healthcare providers plan prenatal care, monitor fetal development, time specific tests, and assess whether medical intervention is needed. For parents-to-be, it helps with physical and emotional preparation, as well as planning for maternity leave and childcare arrangements.
How accurate is the due date?
The due date is an estimate, and only about 5% of babies are born on their exact due date. Most healthy pregnancies deliver within two weeks before or after the due date. First-trimester ultrasounds typically provide the most accurate due date estimates.
What if I don't know my last menstrual period date?
If you're unsure about your last period date, an early ultrasound is the best way to determine gestational age and due date. The doctor will measure the size of the baby, particularly the crown-rump length, head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length to calculate gestational age.
Should I be concerned if I go past my due date?
Going one to two weeks past your due date is usually not cause for serious concern and is referred to as a 'post-term pregnancy.' However, your doctor will increase monitoring to assess fetal well-being and amniotic fluid levels. If you go too far past your due date, your doctor may recommend induction, as pregnancies beyond 42 weeks are associated with increased risks.
What is the amniotic sac and when does it form?
The amniotic sac is a fluid-filled sac that surrounds and protects the developing fetus. It begins to form around 10-12 days after conception and is fully formed by the end of the 4th week. The amniotic sac is filled with amniotic fluid, which provides cushioning protection, allows free movement, supports musculoskeletal development, and maintains a stable temperature.