How is the fundal height used in prenatal care?

Fundal height is an important measurement taken during prenatal care to assess fetal growth and development. It refers to the distance from the pubic symphysis to the top of the uterus (the fundus). As pregnancy progresses, the fundal height typically increases in correlation with fetal growth. Measuring fundal height allows healthcare providers to estimate gestational age, monitor the growth of the fetus, and identify any potential complications such as growth restrictions or excessive growth.

For example, if the fundal height is significantly smaller than expected for a given gestational age, it may indicate that the fetus is not growing as expected, which can warrant further evaluation and monitoring. Conversely, if the fundal height is larger than expected, it may lead to considerations of conditions such as polyhydramnios or multiples. Hence, regular measurements of fundal height are essential for tracking the health and development of the fetus throughout pregnancy.