01/27/2026
As birthworkers, we know that the language around due dates can contribute to unnecessary pressure for parents in late pregnancy. The term “due date” suggests a deadline—but biologically, it’s much more of an estimate within a range of natural variation.
Research shows that only about 4–5 % of babies are born on their exact estimated due date. The rest arrive sometime before or after that day, with many past it.
In a large cohort study of over 4 million births, more than a quarter (28.4 %) of babies were born one or more weeks after the calculated due date.
Families often absorb pressure—from providers, well-meaning loved ones, and social networks—to “know when baby is coming” or to arrive by that date. This can heighten anxiety, especially in the last weeks of pregnancy when energy and comfort are already taxed.
By normalizing that most births don’t occur on the due date and that going past it is common, we help:
-Reduce performance pressure around an arbitrary day
-Support parents in trusting their bodies and babies
-Create space for calm observation rather than fear of “lateness”
