What is the significance of measuring fundal height?

Measuring fundal height is a key aspect of prenatal care, particularly because it provides vital insight into fetal growth and development. As the pregnancy progresses, the fundal height, which is the distance from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus, typically correlates with the gestational age of the fetus after 20 weeks. By tracking this measurement at each prenatal visit, healthcare providers can assess whether the fetus is growing appropriately.

A fundal height that is consistent with gestational age indicates normal fetal growth and can suggest that the placenta is functioning adequately. Conversely, a fundal height that is too small may indicate possible intrauterine growth restriction, while a measurement that is too large could suggest issues like gestational diabetes or multiple pregnancies.

This method provides a non-invasive way to monitor fetal development, contributing to decisions about further evaluation or interventions if concerns about fetal growth arise. Thus, its significance lies primarily in its ability to inform healthcare providers about the well-being of the fetus throughout the pregnancy.