How accurate is fundal height reading with tape measure?

Specialties Ob/Gyn

Published

Specializes in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy.

How accurate does the fundal height reading with a tape measure tend to be?

Specializes in ICU, CVICU.

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.

Specializes in Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergy.

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!

Specializes in LDRP.

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.

Specializes in Maternal - Child Health.

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!

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.

How accurate does the fundal height reading with a tape measure tend to be?

i think its accurate

i think its accurate

iam a nurse when i alawys i measure the fundus height it reflects the accurate measurement for the gestational weeks

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