Question

What the anatomic landmarks for estimation of gestational age based on fundal height measurements?

Answer

Measuring fundal height is a skill PA students must acquire on their OBGYN rotation.  Using a rolled tape measure, the distance is measured (in cm) from the pubic symphasis to the highest part of the uterus.  Note that it may not be mid-line and you will need to do some palpation to find the apex.

Anatomic landmarks can help estimate gestational age based on fundal height measurements:

• 12 weeks – just above the pubic symphasis
• 16 weeks – halfway between pubic symphasis and umbilicus
• 20 weeks – at the level of the umbilicus

After 20 weeks, gestational age is estimated at 1 cm per week…..that is to say 25 weeks gestational should have a fundal height measurement of 25 cm (+/- 2 cm).

References

1. Mackenzie AP, Stephenson CD, Funai EF. Prenatal assessment of gestational age, date of delivery, and fetal weight. UpToDate. 2017. Accessed February 10, 2018.