How should fundal height be measured in a pregnant woman?

Measuring fundal height is a critical part of prenatal care, as it helps assess fetal growth and the gestational age of the pregnancy. The correct method is to measure from the pubic symphysis, which is the joint located at the front of the pelvis, to the top of the fundus, which is the highest point of the uterus. This measurement provides a reliable estimate of the growth of the uterus and is typically taken in centimeters.

As the pregnancy progresses, the fundal height should correlate with gestational age; for example, around 20 weeks, the fundus should be at the level of the navel. This method is preferred because it provides a consistent reference point that allows for accurate tracking of the uterus's growth over time.

Other measuring points, such as from the belly button, cervical opening, or hip bone, do not provide a consistent and reliable measure of fundal height, as they can vary greatly among individuals and do not accurately reflect the changes in uterine size during pregnancy.