Specialties Ob/Gyn
Published May 27, 2007
JeanettePNP, MSN, RN, NP
1 Article; 1,863 Posts
How accurate does the fundal height reading with a tape measure tend to be?
labcat01, BSN, RN
629 Posts
I've always heard that, while it is pretty close, it isn't THAT accurate (and I believe it).
Personally, I always measured about a month bigger but my baby was perfectly normal and a week late.
Thanks! At my last prenatal visit I measured 36 weeks, but I'm pretty sure I'm further along than that. My mw told me not to worry but of course I worried anyway!
HappyNurse2005, RN
1,640 Posts
well, one arbitrary measurement can't possibly be expected to be exactly the same on every woman. think about how different bellies are on women. some have huge bellies that stick way out, some have teeny bellies-if your mw isn't worried, i wouldn't be either.
Jolie, BSN
6,375 Posts
It is an estimate, at best. If your fundal height was way off from your estimated gestation, then your provider might suggest an U/S to count heads, assess amniotic fluid volume, estimate fetal growth, etc. But a few weeks one way or the other so close to term is probably not a cause for concern.
Best wishes for a safe and peaceful delivery, and a healthy baby!
Jo Dirt
3,270 Posts
I'm overweight so when the doctor pulled out that tape measure I asked him how he could tell what was baby and what was fat, he said it was just his best guess.
sunrise romance
2 Posts
i think its accurate
iam a nurse when i alawys i measure the fundus height it reflects the accurate measurement for the gestational weeks