Pregnancy Second/third trimester

Fundal height

Fundal height is the distance in centimetres measured from the top of your pubic bone to the top of your uterus (the fundus). Your midwife or obstetrician measures it with a tape measure at antenatal visits from around 20 weeks onward. As a rough guide, the fundal height in centimetres usually matches your gestational week, give or take two centimetres. It is a quick, inexpensive way to track whether your uterus is growing as expected. If the measurement is consistently small or large for your dates, your doctor will likely order an ultrasound to investigate further.

What This Means for You

Understanding Fundal height is an important part of your second/third trimester journey. During pregnancy, your care team will use this term regularly. Being familiar with it means you can ask better questions and feel more confident at your antenatal appointments.

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Good to Know

Fundal height can be affected by your body shape, the position of the baby, and whether you have excess amniotic fluid, so it is used as a trend indicator rather than a standalone diagnostic tool. Polycystic ovary syndrome and multiple pregnancies can also affect readings.

Related Terms

Source: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/locations/sparta/services-and-treatments/prenatal-care/prenatal-visits

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.

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Medical Disclaimer: This glossary is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

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