What EDD stands for
EDD is the Estimated Date of Delivery: the day on which your pregnancy reaches 40 weeks 0 days. Older notes may say EDC (Estimated Date of Confinement) – the same thing. The key word is estimated: it is the midpoint of a normal range, not an appointment.
EDD on your scan report
Ultrasound reports in India often show two dates:
- EDD by LMP – calculated from the last menstrual period you gave the sonologist.
- EDD by USG (ultrasound) – calculated from the baby’s measurements on that day.
In the first trimester these usually agree within a few days. If they differ by more than about a week, your doctor may adopt the USG date. In later scans, a different EDD by USG mostly reflects your baby being larger or smaller than average, not a change in your due date. Your doctor will say which EDD to follow – usually the one from your earliest reliable scan.
Later-scan “EDD by USG” is a growth estimate. Don’t change your due date on the strength of a third-trimester scan unless your doctor tells you to.
How likely is birth on the EDD?
Only around 1 in 20–25 babies is born on the EDD itself. Roughly two-thirds arrive within about 10 days of it, and the vast majority between 37 and 42 weeks. Planned caesarean and induction also shape the timing.
How to use your EDD
- Count back to plan scans and tests (the pregnancy wheel makes this easy).
- Apply for maternity leave in time – eligible women can take up to 8 of their 26 weeks before the EDD.
- Be ready from 37 weeks: bag packed, documents together, transport planned.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between EDD and EDC?
None – EDC (estimated date of confinement) is an older name for EDD.
Which EDD should I follow, LMP or USG?
Follow the date your doctor confirms. It is usually based on the earliest reliable ultrasound if it differs significantly from your LMP date.
Medical disclaimer: The results and information on this page are estimates for general education only. They are not a diagnosis and do not replace advice from your gynaecologist, obstetrician or midwife. If you have pain, bleeding, reduced baby movements or feel unwell, contact your doctor or call 108 immediately. Read the full disclaimer.
Sources & further reading
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Committee Opinion No. 700: Methods for Estimating the Due Date. acog.org
- ACOG. Committee Opinion No. 579: Definition of Term Pregnancy.