Due Date

If you've just found out you're pregnant, one of your next questions is "when's the baby due?"

It's hard to predict exactly, but our calculator can give you an idea. It uses a simple technique, what is called by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) the last menstrual period (LMP), to calculate the due date. Always consult your doctor to determine your correct due date. Your doctor will use your LMP along with other methods, such as ultrasound (Read about "Ultrasound Imaging"), to decide how far along in development the embryo is and help establish a due date.

Keep in mind, however, that only five percent of women deliver their babies on their projected due date, according to the National Women's Health Information Center (NWHIC). So this date should be used as an estimate; it is not an exact calculation. In addition, the calculator may not provide an accurate reading if you have irregular ovulation or menstrual periods.

Remember too that as soon as you think you might be pregnant, it's important to seek professional healthcare. (Read about "Prenatal Care" "Healthy Pregnancy") In fact, the National Institutes of Health say the best time to start planning for a healthy pregnancy is before you actually get pregnant. This gives you a chance to get your own health in the best shape possible. If you are overweight, lose weight before getting pregnant. (Read about "Losing Weight") If you smoke, quit. (Read about "Quit Smoking") The March of Dimes also urges all women who are trying to get pregnant or know they are pregnant to get enough folic acid. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says pregnant women or women who are thinking of getting pregnant should consume 400 micrograms (mcg) per day of synthetic folic acid (from fortified foods and/or supplements) in addition to food forms of folate from a varied diet. Folic acid has been shown to be important in the development of the fetus and helps protect against birth defects (Read about "Birth Defects") such as spina bifida or other neural tube defects. (Read about "Neural Tube Defects")

It also gives you a head start on planning for your baby. And there are many things to plan. Some of the things to consider, according to NWHIC:

• Setting up a schedule for tests and check-ups you'll be following throughout your pregnancy (Read about "Pregnancy Testing")
• Getting information to help you decide about delivery options.
• Getting information to help you decide about breastfeeding. (Read about "Breastfeeding")
• Choosing a healthcare provider for your child; you may even want to interview potential pediatricians.
• Getting information from your health insurance company to make sure you'll be able to get the kind of care you want. (Read about "Health Insurance Terms Glossary")
• Finding out about programs to help you care for your baby, if you can't afford health insurance.
• Learning about nutrition during pregnancy. (Read about "Pregnancy and Nutrition")
• Getting baby furniture and clothing; making sure that everything is safe with no loose ends, sharp edges or small harmful parts.

In the coming months there will be many changes but having good information will make it easier to navigate this busy time.

Related Information:

    Pregnancy Resource Center

    Stages of Pregnancy

    Childbirth

    Baby and Young Child Care

    Newborn Concerns