What does the Ballard score assess?

The Ballard score evaluates 6 neuromuscular maturity criteria (posture, square window, arm recoil, popliteal angle, scarf sign, heel to ear) and 6 physical maturity criteria (skin, lanugo, plantar surface, breast, eye/ear, genitals).

What is the range of the Ballard score?

The New Ballard Score ranges from -10 to 50, corresponding to gestational ages of 20 to 44 weeks. Each 2-point increment corresponds to approximately 1 week of gestational age.

When should the Ballard score be performed?

The Ballard score should be performed within 12-20 hours of birth for optimal accuracy, before excessive environmental influences alter the neuromuscular findings.

Ballard Gestational Age Score

Estimate gestational age from Ballard score assessing neuromuscular maturity and physical maturity criteria (total score correlates to gestational age 20-44 weeks).

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.

How to Use

Enter the values for the scenario you are assessing. Estimate gestational age from Ballard score assessing neuromuscular maturity and physical maturity criteria (total score correlates to gestational age 20-44 weeks). Use the ballard score result to inform your calculation.

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