when is a baby considered full term

A baby is considered full term when the pregnancy reaches between 39 weeks, 0 days and 40 weeks, 6 days of gestation. This classification is based on guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). Previously, any baby born between 37 and 42 weeks was considered full term, but research showed babies born before 39 weeks face higher risks of complications such as breathing, feeding, and temperature control issues. Waiting until at least 39 weeks allows the baby's brain, lungs, liver, and other organs to develop fully, leading to better health outcomes. Births between 37 weeks and 38 weeks, 6 days are now classified as early term, which is not premature but still early compared to full term. Thus, full term is now defined as 39 weeks to 40 weeks, 6 days of pregnancy, which offers the best chance for a healthy baby.