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Childbirth/weeks in pregnancy

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Expert: - 5/11/2010


Question
I'm just curious about something... If someone gives birth to a fetus who is only 24 weeks is she really giving birth to a 22 week old fetus? My friend gave birth at 24 weeks and the baby lived just wanted to know if she was really 22 weeks or 24 weeks. her ultrasound said 24 weeks but i see everywhere on the net that ultrasounds go by LMP not the actual fetus age

Answer
Julie,


In every pregnancy, the fetus is always 2 weeks younger than you are weeks of pregnancy due to the way pregnancy length is calculated.  So, yes, if you delivered at 24 weeks of pregnancy, the fetus is actually 22 weeks.  If you're 38 weeks, the baby is 36 weeks, etc.


However, you would not say that you gave birth at 22 weeks (this would indicate the baby was 20 weeks and no child is viable at that age).  Measurements in pregnancy are always given in gestational age rather than fetal age to ensure that everyone is using a consistent system of measurement to avoid confusion.


Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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