When you find out you are pregnant, you will be excited to find out when your baby will be born. Although finding out the exact date may not be possible for most moms, you can get an estimation. One of the best ways to know your due date is to use a pregnancy calculator that will give you a pretty close estimation. Remember it is pretty common to deliver a week or two before or after your due date.
How to use a pregnancy calculator
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The First day of your last period
When using a pregnancy calculator, add 40 weeks from the first day of your last period. This is because most pregnancies last 40 weeks. You could also subtract three months from the first day of your last period, and add 1 week to estimate your due date. This is more effective for women who have a regular cycle.
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Conception date
For the women who are pretty sure about their conception date, adding 266 days to that date will give them their estimated due date.
Women who cannot remember their conception date or the first day of their last period can consult a doctor. Without a pregnancy calculator, doctors can use the following methods to determine the due date.
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Ultrasound
Having an ultrasound done by your doctor can help them determine the most likely due date. They will be able to see the development of your baby and let you know how far along you are and when you will deliver.
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Size of your uterus
This can be determined by a doctor using an internal exam. This can also help to determine your due date.
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Pregnancy milestones
Pregnancy milestones can also be used to pinpoint your due date. Milestones such as the first time your child’s heartbeat is heard or when you first feel your baby move can help the doctor determine your due date.
While your due date can change due to different circumstances such as when you need to have an emergency C-section due to factors such as gestational diabetes, a pregnancy calculator can help you be ready for your baby.
By Beth Mugo
