What is an LMP and why does it matter?

“LMP” means “last menstrual period.”  When you are making an appointment with any medical office to see if you can get confirmation of a pregnancy, you will generally be asked about your LMP.  If you know the starting date of your LMP, it can help the office to have a general idea of when you conceived. The menstrual cycle is the monthly series of changes a woman’s body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy. Each month, one of the ovaries releases an egg — a process called ovulation. At the same time, hormonal changes prepare the uterus for pregnancy. … This is a menstrual period.

According to womenshealth.gov, “the typical menstrual cycle is 28 days long, but each woman is different.  Also, a woman’s menstrual cycle length might be different from month-to-month. Your periods are still “regular” if they usually come every 24 to 38 days.  This means that the time from the first day of your last period up to the start of your next period is at least 24 days but not more than 38 days.”

Since the typical menstrual cycle lasts around 28 days, and ovulation occurs around day 14, if you know the date of your LMP, then the health care provider can estimate the date of conception, and can then estimate your due date.

However, you may not remember your LMP, or you may have irregular cycles.  That’s ok.  At Life Options Clinic we can also perform an ultrasound.  Ultrasounds will also help determine the due date.

If you think you might be pregnant, call Life Options Clinic to schedule an appointment.  We’ll provide you with a free medical-grade pregnancy test, which will be read by one of our nurses.  Then our medical staff will determine if and when you can have an ultrasound.  Whether you are considering parenting, adoption, or abortion, knowing how far along you are is critical.

Call Life Options Clinic to schedule an appointment — 850-983-2730.  We have caring and compassionate medical staff and volunteers who will help you walk through this journey you are on.  We always want you to know you are not alone.