How Much Does the Uterus Grow During Pregnancy?

Measuring fundal height using a tape measure

Measure the distance between your fundus and the pubic bone in centimeters using a tape.

For example, if you are 24 weeks pregnant, then your uterus would usually measure 22-26cm. The uterus usually grows 1cm in a week or about 4cm in a month.

This technique allows you to monitor your pregnancy’s growth week by week. However, studies claim that additional research is necessary to determine the validity of this approach.

Measuring The Uterus During Pregnancy

To better understand fetal growth and development, your doctor may take a measurement of your uterus, also known as the fundal height (fundus is the domed region at the top of the uterus). The gestational age is determined by the fundal height, which is the distance between the top of the pubic bone and the top of the uterus.

Note: It should be noted that the size of the uterus varies from woman to woman and depends on height, weight, and age (11).

You, too, can measure the size of your uterus. Before we go into the various methods of measuring it, let’s see the initial steps:

Lie down on your back on the bed or the floor. While lying down, you should not feel any pain or dizziness.

Locate your uterus by touching your tummy. If you are over 20 weeks pregnant, you can feel the uterus just above the navel. The uterus is hard, round.

Now, move your fingers upward to feel the top of the uterus, which is also referred to as fundus.

Proceed to locate your pubic bone. It is positioned just above your pubic hair line. The bone tip that you can feel is the pubic bone.

You can measure the fundal height using a variety of techniques once you’ve located the fundus and the pubic bone.

When should I worry about my fundal height?

Your fundal height is usually not a reason for worry. It is acceptable if it is off by two weeks or two centimeters. Your doctor will examine your medical history and determine whether any additional tests are necessary. Your due date may simply be off, or the fetus may be slightly smaller or larger than normal.

Healthcare professionals do not calculate your due date using fundal height. Fundal height measures the fetus’ size in relation to its gestational age. The most accurate way to find out when you’re due is to count back 40 weeks (or 280 days) from the start of your last period. First-trimester ultrasound is frequently used by medical professionals to estimate the gestational age and due date.

How will the uterus change during pregnancy? – Dr. Madhushree Vijayakumar