Life goals

I want to have a baby

This page helps you from trying to conceive to planning for your baby. Each step is simple and takes a minute or two. These tools are estimates, so check with your doctor or midwife.

Free, no sign-upPrivate — runs in your browserUpdated November 2026
  1. 1

    Track your cycle

    Knowing when your period is due helps you find your fertile days. Type the first day of your last period and your usual cycle length.

    When will my next period start?

    Track my cycle →

    Tip: Write down your period start dates for a few months. It makes every estimate better.

  2. 2

    Find your most fertile days

    Ovulation is when your body releases an egg. It is the best time to try for a baby. Type your last period date and cycle length.

    When am I most likely to get pregnant this month?

    Find my fertile days →

    Tip: The few days before ovulation and the day of ovulation are usually the most fertile.

  3. 3

    Work out your due date

    Once you are pregnant, find your estimated due date and how many weeks along you are. Type the first day of your last period.

    When is my baby due, and how far along am I?

    Find my due date →

    Tip: Only a small share of babies arrive on the due date. Most come within a couple of weeks of it.

  4. 4

    Know a healthy weight gain

    Healthy weight gain depends on your weight before pregnancy. Type your height, your weight before pregnancy and how many weeks along you are.

    How much weight should I gain while pregnant?

    Check my weight gain →

    Tip: Every pregnancy is different. Your doctor or midwife can tell you what is right for you.

  5. 5

    Count down to the big day

    Make a countdown to your due date. It is a fun way to share the wait with family.

    Start my countdown →

    Tip: Plan to have your bag and car seat ready a few weeks before the due date.

  6. 6

    Plan your baby budget

    A baby brings new costs and maybe less income during leave. Type your monthly take-home pay to plan needs, wants and savings.

    How should I split my income between needs, wants and savings?

    Plan my budget →

    Tip: Ask your employer about parental leave pay early, so you can plan for any drop in income.

Questions people ask

When am I most likely to get pregnant?

You are most fertile in the few days before ovulation and on the day of ovulation. In a 28-day cycle, ovulation often happens around day 14, but this varies a lot. Ovulation tests or tracking signs can help.

How is the due date worked out?

The due date is usually counted as 40 weeks (280 days) from the first day of your last period. An early ultrasound can make the date more accurate.

How much weight should I gain while pregnant?

It depends on your BMI before pregnancy. People who start at a healthy weight often gain about 11 to 16 kg (25 to 35 lb) with one baby. Your doctor or midwife can guide you.

How long does it take to get pregnant?

Many couples conceive within a year of trying. If you are under 35 and have tried for a year, or 35 or older and have tried for six months, it is a good idea to talk to a doctor.