Calculate your due date, track weekly milestones, and estimate delivery costs in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ghana.
The estimated due date (EDD) is calculated using Naegele's Rule: add 280 days (40 weeks) to the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). This assumes a 28-day menstrual cycle with ovulation occurring around day 14. If you know your exact conception date, the calculator adds 266 days instead.
Only about 5% of babies arrive on their exact due date. Most babies are born within two weeks before or after the EDD. Your healthcare provider may adjust your due date based on ultrasound measurements, especially if your cycle length differs from 28 days.
The cost of having a baby varies enormously across African countries and between public and private facilities. In Nigeria, delivery at a public hospital might cost under NGN 100,000, while premium private hospitals in Lagos can charge over NGN 3 million. Kenya's SHIF (formerly NHIF) covers maternity benefits at accredited facilities, significantly reducing out-of-pocket costs. In South Africa, public hospitals provide free maternity care for citizens, while private care through medical aid schemes can cost R20,000–R50,000 or more.
Understanding these costs early in pregnancy allows families to plan financially, explore insurance options, and choose the right facility for their budget and needs.
The WHO recommends a minimum of eight antenatal care contacts during pregnancy. In many African countries, antenatal care is free or heavily subsidised at public facilities. Key visits include the booking visit (before 12 weeks), the anatomy scan (around 20 weeks), and regular check-ups in the third trimester. Early and regular antenatal care is associated with better outcomes for both mother and baby.
Sources: WHO Antenatal Care Guidelines, Nigeria NHIS Operational Guidelines, Kenya SHIF Benefits Package, South Africa Department of Health, Ghana NHIS Benefits.