1. What is the Due Date Calculation?

The due date calculation estimates when a baby is likely to be born based on the conception date. The standard calculation adds 266 days (38 weeks) to the conception date, which represents the typical human gestation period.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• 266 days — Average length of human pregnancy from conception
• Conception Date — Date when fertilization occurred

Explanation: This calculation assumes a standard 38-week pregnancy from conception (rather than the more common 40-week estimate from last menstrual period).

3. Importance of Due Date Calculation

Details: Knowing the estimated due date helps in prenatal care planning, monitoring fetal development, and preparing for delivery. It's also important for determining if the pregnancy is progressing normally.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the known or estimated conception date. The calculator will add 266 days (38 weeks) to determine the estimated due date.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why 266 days instead of 280 days (40 weeks)?
A: 280 days is counted from the last menstrual period (LMP), while 266 days is from conception (typically about 2 weeks after LMP).

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Only about 5% of women deliver on their exact due date. Most deliver within 2 weeks before or after the estimated date.

Q3: What if I don't know my conception date?
A: If you know your last menstrual period, use the LMP method instead (LMP + 280 days).

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

Q5: Can the due date change during pregnancy?
A: Yes, healthcare providers may adjust the due date based on ultrasound measurements, especially if they differ significantly from the initial estimate.