Gestational age vs fetal age While gestational age is measured from the first day of your last menstrual period, fetal age is calculated from the date of conception. This is during ovulation, which means that fetal age is about two weeks behind gestational age.

What if gestational age is less than fetal age?

But most babies who are small for gestational age have growth problems that happen during pregnancy. Many of these babies have a condition called intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This happens when the unborn baby doesnt get the nutrients and oxygen needed to grow and develop organs and tissues.

What happens if my baby is measuring small?

What does being small mean for my baby? If your baby is small but healthy, he or she is not at increased risk of complications. If your baby is growth restricted, there is an increased risk of stillbirth (the baby dying in the womb), serious illness and dying shortly after birth.

Should I worry if baby is measuring small?

No, theres not necessarily anything wrong if your baby is small for dates. Babies grow at different rates and some are simply smaller than average. Measurements arent always accurate either. Your midwife may offer you a growth scan though, to be on the safe side.