Maybe you just found out you’re pregnant, and you discovered online due date calendars in hopes of learning some more information. While they can be really helpful in determining your due date, they can also cause some confusion and are not as accurate as an ultrasound.
Here are three reasons why an ultrasound is considered more accurate than an online due date calculator, and why it’s important to have an ultrasound performed early on in your pregnancy.
#1 Due Date Calculators Are Based on Average Cycles
Due date calendars ask for the date of your LMP (last menstrual period) and then add 40 weeks to that date. However, every woman’s cycle is different. Some women don’t ovulate on day 14 (the average day of ovulation) it could be day 17, 18, etc. Some women have 24 day cycles, 28, or even 30+. All women are unique in the details regarding their cycles. Because these calculators are using information based on the average woman, it can be inaccurate. That is why an ultrasound is helpful! They can provide precise measurements that determine your baby’s gestational age.
#2 Ultrasounds Can Detect Fetal Development Milestones/ complications
Ultrasounds can give you an up close look into what’s happening inside. When you receive an ultrasound, your sonographer will be able to see the growth rate of your baby, physical structure, and you will be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat! Your sonographer will also determine if the pregnancy is ectopic (meaning the pregnancy is outside of the uterus). This especially important if you are considering an abortion.
#3 Ultrasounds Provide Peace of Mind
An unplanned pregnancy can already be an overwhelming time. If a due date calendar gives you incorrect information that can just add to the stress. Ultrasounds can provide peace of mind by giving you clearer answers. You will understand more of what’s happening inside your body and what your next steps are.
How We Can Help
At Cecil Pregnancy and Family Resource Center, we offer free ultrasound services – no insurance needed! We want to do everything we can to ease your mind as well as provide you with the information you need!