Pregnancy Weeks and Prenatal Care Concerns

Pregnancy weeks and prenatal check-up questions?

My last menstrual period started on December 6, and my cycle has been consistently 28 days, lasting 7 days each time.
At the beginning of January, my period did not arrive, and I took a home pregnancy test, which confirmed that I am pregnant.
I checked online to calculate my gestational age based on my menstrual cycle and found two different methods: one indicates I am in the 6th week, while the other suggests the 8th week.
This has left me uncertain about my actual gestational age.

Given that I have experienced a miscarriage in the past and I am over 35 years old, I am somewhat concerned about the status of my pregnancy (currently, I feel fine and have no significant discomfort).
However, I am currently abroad, and accessing local healthcare without insurance is quite complicated.
I am considering whether to return to Taiwan for a check-up, but I am also worried that long-distance travel in early pregnancy might increase the risk of miscarriage.

Would a doctor recommend returning to Taiwan for prenatal care as soon as possible, or should I wait until after 12 weeks when the pregnancy is generally considered more stable? Are there any specific precautions I should take during the flight? Thank you.

Wu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/01/26

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the number of weeks is calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Stay calm, and you can come back when things are more stable.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/01/26

More Info

Understanding your pregnancy weeks and prenatal care is crucial, especially considering your previous miscarriage and your age. Let's break down your concerns step by step.

Firstly, the calculation of pregnancy weeks can indeed be confusing. The standard method for determining how far along you are in your pregnancy is to count from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). In your case, if your last period started on December 6 and you have a regular 28-day cycle, you would typically be considered about 6 weeks pregnant by the time you missed your period in early January. However, if you are using a different method or if there are variations in cycle length, it might lead to discrepancies in the calculation, such as the 8 weeks you mentioned. It's important to remember that these calculations are estimates, and the exact timing can vary based on individual circumstances.

Given your history of miscarriage and your age (over 35), it is understandable that you are feeling anxious about your current pregnancy. Women over 35 are at a higher risk for certain complications, and it is advisable to have regular prenatal check-ups to monitor the health of both you and your baby. If you are currently abroad and unable to access healthcare easily, it might be wise to consider returning to Taiwan for a check-up, especially if you are feeling uncertain about your pregnancy status.
Regarding the concern about traveling during the early stages of pregnancy, while long-distance travel can be stressful, it does not inherently increase the risk of miscarriage. However, it is essential to take precautions. Here are some tips for traveling while pregnant:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during flights, as cabin pressure can lead to dehydration.

2. Move Around: If you are flying, try to get up and walk around every hour or so to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Opt for loose-fitting clothes and supportive shoes to enhance comfort during your journey.

4. Plan for Breaks: If you are driving, plan for frequent stops to stretch and rest.

5. Consult Your Doctor: Before traveling, it is always a good idea to discuss your plans with your healthcare provider, who can give you personalized advice based on your medical history.

As for your prenatal care, if you can wait until around 12 weeks, many healthcare providers recommend that as a good time to have your first ultrasound and more comprehensive prenatal screening. This is when the risk of miscarriage decreases significantly, and many important developmental milestones can be assessed.

In summary, while the confusion around your pregnancy weeks is understandable, focusing on regular prenatal care is essential. If you can manage to return to Taiwan for a check-up, it may provide you with peace of mind. Meanwhile, ensure you take care of yourself during travel and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns you may have. Wishing you a healthy and safe pregnancy!

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