How to calculate the due date
Apr 19, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
The due date is usually calculated based on the date of the last menstrual period combined with the results of an ultrasound examination. Specifically, the due date can be estimated starting from the first day of the last menstrual period by subtracting 3 from or adding 9 to the month, and adding 7 to the day, which gives a preliminary result. However, pregnant women should also consider the findings from ultrasound examinations to confirm the due date.
The due date is usually calculated based on the date of the last menstrual period combined with ultrasound examination results. The specific analysis is as follows:
The due date can be estimated starting from the first day of the last menstrual period by subtracting 3 from or adding 9 to the month, and adding 7 to the day, yielding a preliminary estimate. However, pregnant women should also consider ultrasound findings to determine the due date more accurately, especially results from weeks 11 to 13 of pregnancy. During this period, the crown-rump length of the fetus can be used to reconfirm the due date. If there is a significant discrepancy between the due date calculated from the last menstrual period and that derived from the ultrasound, it is recommended to use the ultrasound-based due date. It should be noted that the due date is not an exact delivery date but rather an estimated time frame indicating when the baby can be safely delivered. Pregnant women should prepare for delivery once they reach 37 weeks of gestation. It's important not to become overly anxious. If no signs of labor appear by week 41, medical evaluation at a hospital is necessary, and induction of labor may be performed at an appropriate time.
Throughout pregnancy, women should attend regular prenatal check-ups at the hospital to closely monitor their own health and the development of the fetus.
