Fundal Height Assessment

Fundal Height Assessment
■ Measured to assess fetal growth and development. ■ Using a cm ruler, measure from the top of the symphysis pubis to the top of the fundus (subtract 1 cm if very obese). ■ Measurements greater than 4 cm from estimated gestational age require further evaluation.
Gestation (weeks)	12		16	20	24		28	32	36	40
Ht (cm)	11–13		15–17	19–21	23–24		27–29	31–33	35–37	33–35
Comparison of True and False Labor
		True Labor				False Labor
Contractions ■ Frequency ■ Duration ■ Intensity		Consistent pattern Progressively increasing Progressively increasing Progressively increasing; increases with walking				Inconsistent pattern Inconsistent Inconsistent Inconsistent; subsides or does not increase with walking
Cervix		Progressive effacement and dilation				No significant change
Discomfort		Mostly low back and abdominal				Mostly abdominal and groin