Author – Dr. Madhura Phatak MBBS, MS(OBG), FRCOG, MRCOG, CCT(UK)

Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Motherhood Hospital, Mysore

A pregnancy calculator is a tool that can help expectant mothers and their partners determine the due date of their baby and calculate pregnancy by weeks. It can also provide information about the current stage of pregnancy, as well as other important dates and milestones. There are several different methods that can be used to calculate pregnancy weeks, each with its own set of advantages and limitations. In this article, we will explore how to calculate pregnancy weeks, different methods to do so, how the methods work, and how accurate pregnancy calculators are.

Methods Of Calculating Pregnancy

One of the most commonly used methods for calculating pregnancy weeks is the last menstrual period (LMP) method. This method involves calculating the due date based on the first day of the woman’s last menstrual period. To use this method, the expectant mother simply needs to provide the date of her last period and the average length of her menstrual cycle. The calculator will then estimate the due date by adding 280 days (40 weeks) to the first day of the last period.

While the LMP method is widely used and relatively easy to use, it does have some limitations. One major limitation is that it is only accurate if the woman has a regular menstrual cycle. If the woman’s cycle is irregular, the LMP method may not provide an accurate due date. Additionally, the LMP method does not take into account the variations in pregnancy length that can occur from one woman to another. As a result, the due date calculated using this method may not always be accurate.

Another method for calculating pregnancy weeks is the ultrasound method. This method involves using an ultrasound machine to measure the size of the foetus and determine the gestational age. Ultrasounds are typically performed at various points during pregnancy, and the results are used to calculate the due date. While the ultrasound method is generally considered to be more accurate than the LMP method, it can still be affected by a variety of factors, such as the position of the foetus and the skill of the person performing the ultrasound.

The Motherhood Pregnancy Calculator provides fairly accurate results and can be one of the tools you use to calculate your pregnancy week by week.

How Does A Pregnancy Calculator Work?

In addition to the LMP and ultrasound methods, there are also several online pregnancy calculators that can be used to estimate the due date. These calculators work by using the same information that is used in the LMP and ultrasound methods, such as the date of the last period and the length of the menstrual cycle. However, they also take into account other factors that can affect pregnancy length, such as the woman’s age and the number of previous pregnancies she has had. Online pregnancy calculators are generally considered to be more accurate than the LMP method, but they may not be as accurate as an ultrasound.

Regardless of the method used to calculate pregnancy week by week, it is important to keep in mind that the due date is only an estimate. Many factors can affect the length of pregnancy, including the woman’s age, the number of previous pregnancies she has had, and the general health of both the mother and the baby. As a result, the due date calculated using any of these methods may not always be accurate.

It is also important to note that the due date is only the estimated date of delivery. Most babies are born within a few weeks of the due date, but some may be born earlier or later. If the baby is not born on the due date, it is usually not cause for concern. However, if the pregnancy goes beyond 42 weeks, it may be considered a “post-term” pregnancy and the healthcare provider may recommend inducing labour.

How To Use A Pregnancy Calculator?

To use a pregnancy calculator or a due date calculator, you will need to provide certain information about your pregnancy, such as the date of your last menstrual period and the average length of your menstrual cycle. Some calculators may also ask for additional information, such as your age and the number of previous pregnancies you have had.

Using a pregnancy calculator can be a useful tool for planning your due date and preparing for the arrival of your baby. Here are some steps you can follow to plan your due date using a due date calculator:

1. Find a pregnancy calculator also known as a due date calculator online or on a pregnancy app. There are many different due date calculators available, so you may want to try a few different ones to see which one you like best.
2. Enter the date of your last menstrual period. This is typically the first day of your last period before you become pregnant.
3. Enter the average length of your menstrual cycle. This is the number of days between the first day of one period and the first day of the next period.
4. Some due date calculators may ask for additional information, such as your age and the number of previous pregnancies you have had. If this is the case, enter this information as well.
5. Click the “calculate” button to see the results. The calculator will provide an estimated due date based on the information you have provided.
6. Keep in mind that the due date calculated using a pregnancy calculator is only an estimate. Many factors can affect the length of pregnancy, and the due date may not always be accurate.
7. Consult with your healthcare provider about your due date. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide more accurate information about your due date and can help you plan accordingly.
8. Based on your due date, start making a list of things you will need for the baby. This can include items such as a car seat, crib, diapers, and clothing.
9. Consider taking a childbirth education class to learn about the different stages of labour and delivery. This can help you feel more prepared and confident when the time comes for you to deliver the baby and start labour.
10. You can go here to use our pregnancy calculator

Advantages Of Pregnancy Calculator

1. Convenience: Pregnancy calculators can be accessed online or through pregnancy apps, making them easy to use from the comfort of your own home.
2. Estimated due date: A pregnancy calculator can provide an estimated due date based on the first day of the last menstrual period and the average length of the menstrual cycle.
3. Pregnancy progress: Some calculators can provide information about the current stage of pregnancy and important dates and milestones.
4. Customised information: Some calculators can take into account additional factors that can affect pregnancy length, such as the woman’s age and the number of previous pregnancies she has had.

Limitations Of A Pregnancy Calculator

1. Accuracy: The accuracy of a pregnancy calculator depends on the method used to calculate the due date and the information provided. Some methods, such as the last menstrual period (LMP) method, are less accurate than others, such as the ultrasound method.
2. Irregular menstrual cycles: If the woman has an irregular menstrual cycle, the calculator may not provide an accurate due date.
3. Variation in pregnancy length: Pregnancy length can vary from one woman to another, and the due date calculated using a pregnancy calculator may not always be accurate.
4. Limited information: Pregnancy calculators do not take into account all of the factors that can affect pregnancy length, such as the women’s general health and the health of the baby.

Pregnancy calculators can be a useful tool for estimating the due date of a baby, but it is important to understand that they are not always accurate. The accuracy of a pregnancy calculator depends on the method used to calculate the due date and the information that is provided.

It is important to keep in mind that the due date calculated using a pregnancy calculator is only an estimate. Regardless of the method used to calculate pregnancy, it is important to keep in mind that the due date is only an estimate. Many factors can affect the length of pregnancy, including the woman’s age, the number of previous pregnancies she has had, and the general health of both the mother and the baby. As a result, the due date calculated using any of these methods may not always be accurate. It is always important to follow the advice of your healthcare provider and to attend all recommended prenatal appointments.

Can A Due Date Change?

Yes, a due date can change during pregnancy. The due date is an estimate of when the baby will be born, and it is based on the assumption that pregnancy lasts for an average of 280 days (40 weeks) from the first day of the last menstrual period. However, pregnancy length can vary from one woman to another, and a variety of factors can affect the length of pregnancy. As a result, the due date calculated at the beginning of pregnancy may not always be accurate.

It is important to keep in mind that the due date is only an estimate, and it is not uncommon for babies to be born before or after the due date. Most babies are born within a few weeks of the due date, but some may be born earlier or later. If the baby is not born on the due date, it is usually not cause for concern. However, if the pregnancy goes beyond 42 weeks, it may be considered a “post-term” pregnancy and the healthcare provider may recommend inducing labour.

If the due date changes during pregnancy, it is important to follow the advice of your healthcare provider and to attend all recommended prenatal appointments. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide more accurate information about your due date and can help you plan accordingly.

In conclusion, a pregnancy week calculator is a useful tool for expectant mothers and their partners to determine the due date of their baby. While there are several different methods for calculating pregnancy, each with its own set of advantages and limitations, it is important to keep in mind that the due date is only an estimate and may not always be accurate. To calculate your due date, click here:

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist specialists in Mysore, Mysuru. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries. Do take an appointment with the best Maternity hospital in Mysore, Mysuru at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Madhura Phatak, please book your appointment here.

Author – Dr. Madhura Phatak MBBS, MS(OBG), FRCOG, MRCOG, CCT(UK)

Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Motherhood Hospital, Mysore

What Is An Anomaly Scan?

An anomaly scan, also known as a mid-pregnancy scan or a fetal anomaly scan, is a prenatal test that is usually performed between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy. It is a type of ultrasound exam that is used to check the development of the fetus and identify any potential abnormalities or problems.

Why Would I Need An Anomaly Scan?

There are several reasons why an anomaly scan may be needed. One of the main reasons is to identify any physical abnormalities in the fetus that may indicate a potential health problem. This can include problems with the brain, spine, limbs, and organs. It can also help to detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, which can be associated with certain physical abnormalities.

In addition to identifying potential problems, an anomaly scan is also used to determine the position of the placenta, check the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus, and confirm the gestational age of the fetus.

When Is An Anomaly Scan Done?

An anomaly scan is usually performed by a trained sonographer, who will use a specialized ultrasound machine to create images of the fetus. The procedure is typically done in a hospital or clinic and takes between 30 and 60 minutes. At Motherhood Women & Children’s Hospital, our team of doctors will make sure you are healthy and well taken care of throughout the pregnancy by recommending the right time to do this scan and then follow-up on the same.

How Is An Anomaly Scan Done?

During the scan, the sonographer will place a small amount of gel on the woman’s abdomen, which will help to conduct the ultrasound waves. They will then use a handheld probe to take images of the fetus, which will be displayed on a monitor. The sonographer will look for any physical abnormalities or problems and will also measure the size and development of the fetus to confirm the gestational age.

It is important to note that an anomaly scan is not a diagnostic test and cannot definitively determine whether or not a fetus has a specific condition. However, it can identify potential problems that may require further testing or monitoring.

Some of the birth defects that an anomaly scan may be able to detect include:

• Abnormalities in the brain: It can identify abnormalities in the structure or development of the brain, such as hydrocephalus (excess fluid in the brain), spina bifida (a birth defect in which the spinal cord does not form properly), and anencephaly (a birth defect in which a baby is born without parts of the brain and skull).
• Abnormalities in the spine: It can also identify abnormalities in the spine, such as scoliosis (a curvature of the spine) or kyphosis (an exaggerated curvature of the upper spine).
• Abnormalities in the limbs: It can detect abnormalities in the limbs, such as clubfoot (a birth defect in which the foot is twisted out of shape) or webbed fingers or toes.
• Abnormalities in the organs: It can identify abnormalities in the organs, such as kidney or heart defects.
• Chromosomal abnormalities: It can also detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, which is a chromosomal condition that can be associated with certain physical abnormalities.

After the scan is complete, the sonographer will provide the expectant mother with an anomaly scan report that includes the results of the exam. If any potential problems or abnormalities are identified in the anomaly scan report, the expectant mother may be referred to a specialist for further testing or monitoring. Our team of doctors and experts at Motherhood Women & Children’s Hospital will ensure that the test results are explained and next steps are charted out for you to be at ease and comfortable with the entire process.

There are several benefits to having an anomaly scan during pregnancy:

• Identifying potential problems: It helps to identify any physical abnormalities or problems in the development of the fetus, such as abnormalities in the brain, spine, limbs, or organs. This can allow expectant mothers to receive early treatment or support, if necessary.
• Detecting chromosomal abnormalities: It can also help to detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, which can be associated with certain physical abnormalities. Early detection of chromosomal abnormalities can allow expectant mothers to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and plan for the future.
• Determining the position of the placenta: It can help to determine the position of the placenta, which is important for a healthy pregnancy. If the placenta is located too low in the uterus, it can cause problems during delivery, such as bleeding or preterm labor.
• Checking the amount of amniotic fluid: It can also check the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus, which is important for fetal growth and development. If the amount of amniotic fluid is too low or too high, it can indicate a potential problem that needs to be addressed.
• Confirming gestational age: It is used to confirm the gestational age of the fetus, which is important for monitoring fetal growth and development.

What If There Is A Birth Defect?

If an anomaly scan, also known as a mid-pregnancy scan or a fetal anomaly scan, shows a potential problem or defect, the expectant mother will typically be referred to a specialist for further testing or monitoring. This may include additional scans or tests, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), to confirm or rule out the presence of a specific condition.

If a specific condition is confirmed, the expectant mother and her healthcare provider will work together to determine the best course of action. This may include additional tests or procedures to monitor the health of the fetus, or it may involve discussing the options for managing the condition after birth.

It is also important for expectant mothers to know that many birth defects can be treated or managed after birth. While some conditions may cause serious health problems, others may not have any long-term effects on the child’s health. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to understand the specific risks and potential outcomes associated with a particular condition.

Overall, if an anomaly scan shows a potential problem or defect, it is important for expectant mothers to seek follow-up care and testing to fully understand the risks and potential outcomes associated with the condition.

Cost Of Anomaly Scan

The cost of an anomaly scan, also known as a mid-pregnancy scan or a fetal anomaly scan, in India can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location, the facility, and the type of scan being performed. In general, the cost of an anomaly scan in India ranges from around Rs 2,000 to Rs 6,000 although it can be higher or lower depending on the specific circumstances.

It is important to note that the cost of an anomaly scan may be covered by insurance in some cases, depending on the specific policy and the reason for the scan. It is always a good idea to check with the insurance provider to understand what is covered under the policy.

Overall, the cost of an anomaly scan in India can vary, and it is important for expectant mothers to discuss the costs with their healthcare provider and insurance provider to understand what they can expect to pay for this important prenatal test.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist specialists in Mysore, Mysuru. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries. Do take an appointment with the best Maternity hospital in Mysore, Mysuru at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will assist you with all the tests such as the anomaly scan so that you rule out any abnormalities. To know more about the cost of anomaly scan or processes and results, you can contact Motherhood Women & Children’s Hospital on 96203-96203.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Madhura Phatak, please book your appointment here