How Far Along Am I?
Understanding How to Calculate Pregnancy Length
Determining how far along you are in pregnancy is an important first step in understanding your options and receiving appropriate care.
What is Gestational Age?
Gestational age is the standard way to measure how far along a pregnancy is. It's calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP), not from the day of conception.
Why From My Last Period?
Healthcare providers use your LMP because it's an easier date to remember than the exact day of conception. Ovulation and conception typically occur about 2 weeks after the first day of your period, so gestational age is usually about 2 weeks longer than the actual age of the embryo.
How to Calculate
- 1Identify the first day of your last menstrual period
- 2Count the number of weeks from that date to today
- 3This is your estimated gestational age
Example
If the first day of your last period was 7 weeks ago, then you are approximately 7 weeks gestational age, even though conception likely occurred about 5 weeks ago.
Why It Matters
Knowing your gestational age is important because:
- •Different healthcare options are available depending on how far along you are
- •Certain medications and procedures are only available within specific timeframes
- •Your provider can give you the most accurate guidance when they know your gestational age
- •It helps ensure you receive appropriate care at the right time
Ultrasound and Dating
An ultrasound can provide a more accurate measurement of gestational age, especially if you're unsure of your LMP or if your cycles are irregular. During your telemedicine consultation with Roxy Clinic, your provider may recommend an ultrasound if needed.
Irregular Cycles?
If you have irregular periods or are unsure of your LMP, don't worry. Your Roxy Clinic provider can help determine your gestational age during your consultation. They may recommend:
- •A dating ultrasound at a local clinic
- •A physical examination if appropriate
- •Review of any recent medical records
Next Steps
Ready to take the next step? Use our pregnancy calculator to get an estimate of your gestational age, then schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified providers.