Due Dates

Due dates are just estimations and are not an exact science. They are not an expiration date. In fact, only 4% of women give birth on their actual due date. Most first time moms will give birth approximately 5 days past their due date, and many will go longer than that. 

A due date is typically calculated based on the first day of the mother's last menstrual period and assumes a 28-day menstrual cycle with ovulation on day 14. However, not all women have a 28-day cycle, and not all women ovulate on day 14.

Additionally, even if the mother's cycle is regular, there can still be variations in the actual date of conception and the time it takes for the fertilized egg to implant in the uterus. These factors can all contribute to differences between the estimated due date and the actual date of delivery.

It is also important to remember that a due date is just an estimation and not a guarantee of when the baby will be born.

Your baby will come when they are ready. 

I know how exciting it is to think about due dates. Use it as a way to prepare yourself for labor, but try not to get fixated on it. I know that’s easier said than done especially when everyone around you starts asking “is the baby here yet?” as you approach your “due date” My recommendation is to tell people the month you’re expecting your baby to arrive instead of sharing the actual due date.