The Most Popular Months to Conceive in the UK
If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, one of the first questions is usually “When did it happen?” Babies are conceived all year round, but some months are noticeably busier than others.
At BellaMoon, our busiest month of the year is September. Count back about nine months and you land on a festive conception. That pattern matches the national picture: ONS figures regularly show September as one of the busiest months for births in the UK and Ireland.
Here’s a look at the most popular months to conceive, why they might be popular, and how to work out your own conception date and due date.
The 5 Most Popular Months to Conceive
1. December: The Christmas Effect
December is the classic conception month. Time off work, family gatherings and long, cosy evenings all mean more time together. It’s the main reason September is one of the UK’s busiest months for babies.
Conceived in December? Your baby is likely due in September.
2. January: New Year, New Beginnings
The holiday spirit tends to spill into January. Many couples also decide that the new year is the time to start trying for a family.
Conceived in January? Your baby is likely due in October.
3. February: Valentine’s Day
Date nights, romantic weekends away and a little extra effort all make February another popular month for conception.
Conceived in February? Your baby is likely due in November.
4. March: Spring Is in the Air
Lighter evenings, warmer weather and summer holiday plans can lift everyone’s mood.
Conceived in March? Your baby is likely due in December.
5. August: The Summer Holiday Effect
Holidays, sunshine and a slower pace of life mean couples are more relaxed and spending more time together.
Conceived in August? Your baby is likely due in May.
Conception Month to Due Date: Quick Guide
A baby is typically due around 38 weeks (266 days) after conception. That’s the same as 40 weeks from the first day of your last period.
| Month of conception | Approximate due month |
|---|---|
| January | October |
| February | November |
| March | December |
| April | January |
| May | February |
| June | March |
| July | April |
| August | May |
| September | June |
| October | July |
| November | August |
| December | September |
How to Work Out When You Conceived
- Start from your last period. Ovulation, and therefore conception, usually happens around 14 days after the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) in a 28-day cycle.
- Adjust for your cycle length. With longer or shorter cycles, ovulation shifts later or earlier.
- Confirm at your dating scan. In the UK, your dating scan at around 11 to 14 weeks gives the most accurate estimate of how far along you are and when your baby is due.
If you’re unsure, your midwife or GP can help you estimate your due date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common month to conceive in the UK?
December is widely considered the most popular month to conceive. That’s why September is one of the busiest months for births.
If I conceived in December, when is my baby due?
Usually in September. The exact date depends on when you ovulated.
Can I find out exactly what day I conceived?
Not precisely. Sperm can survive up to five days, so conception can happen several days after sex. Your dating scan gives the best estimate.
Every Pregnancy Is Unique
Whether your baby was conceived over Christmas or on a summer holiday, your pregnancy journey is yours. The most important thing is that you and your baby are healthy and well supported.
Get Comfortable From the First Trimester
As your body changes, a good night’s sleep becomes harder to come by. The BellaMoon 3-in-1 Pregnancy Pillow supports your bump, back and hips during pregnancy. After your baby arrives, it doubles as a nursing pillow.
