täiseaegne

Täiseaegne is an Estonian word that translates to "full-term" or "full-term pregnancy" in English. It refers to a pregnancy that has reached its complete duration, typically considered to be between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation. A full-term baby is one born within this established period.

The concept of full-term is crucial in obstetrics as it signifies that the fetus has undergone significant development and is generally considered ready for birth. Babies born at full-term are less likely to experience the complications associated with premature birth, such as underdeveloped lungs or feeding difficulties. Conversely, pregnancies extending beyond 42 weeks are considered post-term, which can also carry specific risks.

The determination of a full-term pregnancy is usually based on the estimated date of delivery (EDD), which is calculated from the last menstrual period or through early ultrasound scans. While the average length of pregnancy is around 40 weeks, the full-term range acknowledges the natural variation in gestation periods among healthy pregnancies. Healthcare providers monitor pregnancies closely to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby, especially as the pregnancy approaches or enters the full-term period.