Final answer:
The gestational age classification for a normal or term baby is between 37 and 41 weeks. By the 37th week, the fetus is fully developed and can survive outside the uterus without many complications. Full-term pregnancies last approximately 38.5 weeks from conception to birth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gestational age classification for a normal or term baby falls in the range of 37 to 41 weeks. By the 37th week, the fetus's organ systems are developed enough that it could survive outside the uterus without many of the associated risks with premature birth.
The fetus continues to gain weight and grow in length until approximately 40 weeks. By this time, the fetus has very little room to move around and birth becomes imminent. In general, a full-term pregnancy lasts approximately 270 days (approximately 38.5 weeks) from conception to birth.
Infants born before full term, defined as 36-40 weeks after fertilization, are usually smaller than full-term infants because they have spent less time growing in the uterus. These pre-term births are one of the major causes of low birth weight and increase the risk of death shortly after birth.
Learn more about Gestational Age