Full formMedical & Health
LMPstands forLast Menstrual Period
Full Form of LMP
What is LMP?
LMP, or Last Menstrual Period, is the first day of a woman's most recent menstrual cycle. In obstetrics and gynaecology, it serves as a critical reference point for estimating gestational age and calculating the expected date of delivery (EDD). The standard method uses Naegele's rule: add 280 days (40 weeks) from the LMP to determine the due date. In India, LMP is routinely recorded during antenatal check-ups in public health centres, private clinics, and hospitals. It is especially important in rural areas where ultrasound facilities may be limited, making the LMP-based calculation a primary tool for pregnancy dating. The accuracy of LMP depends on the regularity of the menstrual cycle and the mother's recall. Despite its limitations, LMP remains the most widely used method for initial dating because it is simple, cost-effective, and non-invasive. For medical entrance exams like NEET PG and AIIMS, understanding LMP is essential for solving clinical scenarios on pregnancy management, due date estimation, and risk assessment. It is also referenced in nursing and midwifery curricula across India.
LMP का फुल फॉर्म
अंतिम मासिक धर्म
Example
The antenatal nurse asked the patient for her LMP to calculate the gestational age and schedule the first trimester ultrasound.
LMP — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of LMP?
LMP stands for Last Menstrual Period, which refers to the first day of a woman's most recent menstrual period.
How is LMP used to calculate the due date?
The due date is estimated by adding 280 days (or 40 weeks) to the first day of the LMP, following Naegele's rule.
What does LMP mean in pregnancy?
In pregnancy, LMP is the starting point for determining gestational age, tracking fetal development, and scheduling antenatal tests.