What is the typical duration of a full-term pregnancy?

A full-term pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks, which is counted from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) to the birth of the baby. This timeframe includes three trimesters, with the first trimester encompassing weeks 1 to 12, the second trimester from weeks 13 to 26, and the third trimester from weeks 27 to 40.

Deliveries are generally considered full-term if they occur between 39 and 40 weeks; however, up to 42 weeks is still within the span of full-term classification. This duration allows for optimal fetal development, including necessary growth, organ maturation, and overall readiness for life outside the womb. Accurate understanding of gestational age is critical for monitoring both maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy and helps in planning for labor and delivery.