Pregnancy calculators enable you to work out a number of dates relevant to your pregnancy, including when you conceived, when you are expected to have the baby and how many weeks pregnant you are. There are 3 main types of pregnancy calculators:
- Pregnancy calculators based on your Last Menstrual Period (LMP). A pregnancy lasts 40 weeks of you start counting from the first day of your last menstrual period. This actually adds up to more than 9 months; this is because ovulation does not happen exactly on the 14th day of your period. Pregnancies and estimated due dates are unreliable and in reality a pregnancy can last anywhere from 38-42 weeks. This of course, does not take into consideration premature births that cannot be predicted in any way.
- Pregnancy Calculators can be based on your conception date: due date is expected to be around 38 weeks from the date of conception. The date of conception is taken as being 2 weeks after your last menstrual period. Remember that sperms cells can live for a period of time (2-3 days) inside the ovary ducts and thus, fertilization and conception can occur 2-3 days after you had intercourse.
Pregnancy calculators are available online. These can help clarify your dates- something which is essential to any couple expecting a child.