Labor & Delivery Date Calculator

Understanding Labor Timing

Labor onset is spontaneous and can occur at any point in the 37–42 week window for a normal pregnancy. Understanding the different term designations helps you know when to expect baby and when to contact your OB-GYN.

Term Classifications (ACOG 2013)

• Early Term: 37 0/7 – 38 6/7 weeks — baby is physically ready but still maturing
• Full Term: 39 0/7 – 40 6/7 weeks — optimal developmental completion, best outcomes
• Late Term: 41 0/7 – 41 6/7 weeks — induction often recommended
• Post Term: 42 weeks+ — requires medical intervention

Signs of Labor

• Regular contractions that increase in frequency and intensity
• Water breaking (rupture of membranes)
• Bloody show (mucus plug with blood)
• Lower back pain that radiates to the abdomen
• Pressure in the pelvis and rectal area

When to Go to the Hospital

Call your OB-GYN or go to the hospital when contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour (the 5-1-1 rule) — or if your water breaks, you experience heavy bleeding, decreased fetal movement, or feel something is wrong.