What is "full term"?

[7arrows4God]

37 is considered usually full term though they may like it to be 38 better.
For twins 36 weeks is considered full term.

[BlessedwithBlue]

"Full term" is not a definite thing, it varies by provider and/or by hopital. Typically full term is considered 37 weeks, with 36 weeks not being full term but no longer being pre-mature. Hopfully that makes sense.

[SaraG]

I don't know if it varies by area, or dr/midwife, or state or what...I just know that I had a 36 weeker and in NY she was considered premature...I was planning a homebirth and my midwives said that legally they couldn't let me until I was 37 weeks...so I had a "preemie" in the hospital - at least that's what she was labeled...guess there is not cut and dry answer...I just know that I was treated like I had a preemie baby and everyone was freaking out because she was one week too early. Hope that helps!

[fish3737]

Originally Posted by susansabrina Technically full term is 38-40 weeks. Fewer than 37 is preterm and over 40 is post term.

I like the way that this is phrased.

[tmfletch]

Originally Posted by ceilismom My MW considers it to be 37 weeks.

[ClothDiaperMePlease]

Originally Posted by susansabrina Technically full term is 38-40 weeks. Fewer than 37 is preterm and over 40 is post term.

[Shyla]

Originally Posted by wikipedia Pregnancy is considered 'at term' when gestation attains 37 complete weeks but is less than 42 (between 259 and 294 days since LMP). Events before completion of 37 weeks (259 days) are considered pre-term; from week 42 (294 days) events are considered post-term

Ive always read that it is 37 weeks and my midwifes and OBs have always said 37 weeks andif you do an internet search all sites Ive found say 37 weeks one said 38 weeks

[asianmama]

the hospital i will be delievering at this time around says 38 is full term the hospital where i delivered befor says 37. since ds was 36 weeks and 6 days he was a "premie" but when asked for birth stats after they get that date he is considered 'full term"

[SativaStarr]

Ive been told 37 is full term. My kids were born at 35 weeks (7 lbs, 20 in) and 34 weeks (5 lbs 9 ozs, 18.5 in) and both were considered preemies, despite being the size of FT babies and having no health issues.. both were home within 3 days of birth.. But I really think my body must just cook my babies a lil faster than most.

[mama2logan&evan]

I've always heard 37-42 weeks is full term.