What gestational age range defines full term?

What gestational age range defines full term?

• A. 39-42 weeks
• B. <35 weeks
• C. >42 weeks
• D. 35-38 weeks

Answer: (A)

Full term means the baby is mature enough for normal breathing and other bodily functions after birth, with the lowest risk of problems related to immaturity. Clinically, term pregnancy is defined as occurring from about 39 through 42 weeks. By 39 weeks, fetal lungs and other systems are typically ready, and outcomes are generally favorable; staying within 39–42 weeks avoids the higher risks seen with earlier gestational ages, while crossing beyond 42 weeks moves into postterm territory with its own concerns. So the range 39–42 weeks best reflects the period considered full term.

Full term means the baby is mature enough for normal breathing and other bodily functions after birth, with the lowest risk of problems related to immaturity. Clinically, term pregnancy is defined as occurring from about 39 through 42 weeks. By 39 weeks, fetal lungs and other systems are typically ready, and outcomes are generally favorable; staying within 39–42 weeks avoids the higher risks seen with earlier gestational ages, while crossing beyond 42 weeks moves into postterm territory with its own concerns. So the range 39–42 weeks best reflects the period considered full term.