Symphysis fundal height curve--a simple method for foetal growth assessment

In this prospective study, symphisis fundal height (SFH) was measured in centimeters at different weeks of gestation from 20th week onwards in 100 healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies. A curve was plotted based on the mean SFH measurements with standard deviation. Readings were also arranged on the basis of 10th, 50th and 90th percentiles. Percentile curve was similar to the curve based on mean with standard deviation. The rate of growth was 1 cm per week between 20-32 weeks. Thereafter, there was a slight fall in the rate of growth. SFH measurement is a simple method of foetal growth assessment which can be utilized even by paramedical workers to screen for small for gestational age babies. It is better to have a standard curve derived from the population as there is regional variation.