How to Measure Fundal Height

Fundal height is the distance from the top of your uterus (fundus) to your pubic bone.

Measuring it helps estimate your baby’s growth and how far along you are in your pregnancy.  However, it's not a perfect test.

You'll be asked to measure your fundal height during some video visits with our team.  Follow these steps to do so:

1) Gather your supplies:

• Soft measuring tape (like the kind used for sewing)
  
• Marker or pen (optional, for marking the tape)

2) Get comfortable.

• Lie flat on your back on a firm surface, like a bed or the floor.
  
• Relax your stomach muscles as much as possible.

3) Find your pubic bone.

• Place your fingers on your lower belly and press gently until you feel a hard, bony ridge just above your groin.

4) Find the top of your uterus (fundus).

• With your other hand, gently press your belly, starting just below your ribs and moving downward.
  
• Your fundus will feel firm, like a rounded edge.

5) Measure the distance.

• Place the measuring tape on your pubic bone.
  
• Stretch the tape up to your fundus.
  
• Note the measurement in centimeters (cm).

6) Compare your measurement.

• Your fundal height usually matches the number of weeks you’re pregnant, give or take 2 cm.
  
• For example, at 24 weeks pregnant, your fundal height should be around 24 cm.

7) Track your results.

• Write down your measurement each time.
  
• If you notice big changes or if something feels off, contact your health care provider.

• Measuring your fundal height is easiest after about 20 weeks of pregnancy, when your uterus is high enough to feel.
  
• If you can’t feel the top of your uterus or you're having trouble measuring, don’t worry.  Ask your doctor or midwife for guidance.  We're here to help!

We'll let you know when to measure your fundal height during video visits with our team's supervision.  

It's not a great way to track your baby’s growth, so we generally do not recommend checking it between visits.

Please let us know if you have any questions.