Which of the following statements is correct regarding the measurement of fundal height at different stages of pregnancy in pregnant women?

Appeared in: Haryana CHO - 2022

Explanation

At 36 weeks of gestation, the uterine fundus reaches its highest point in the abdomen.
This landmark corresponds to the level of the xiphisternum, also known as the xiphoid process, which is the lowermost part of the sternum.
This measurement indicates that fetal growth is progressing as expected for this stage of late pregnancy.
After 36 weeks, particularly in a first-time pregnancy, the fundal height may decrease as the fetal head descends into the pelvis, a process called 'lightening'.

Option A: At 6 weeks, the uterus is still a small, pelvic organ and cannot be palpated abdominally.
Option B: At 12 weeks, the fundus is located at the level of the symphysis pubis, not the umbilicus.
Option C: At 20 weeks, the fundus is at the level of the umbilicus, which is significantly superior to the pelvic girdle.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Fundal height measurement landmarks during pregnancy as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Measuring fundal height is a fundamental nursing assessment in antenatal care to monitor fetal growth and well-being.
A discrepancy between fundal height and gestational age can be an early indicator of complications such as Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), macrosomia (large for gestational age), multiple pregnancies, or incorrect dating of the pregnancy.
What if? - If at 30 weeks gestation, the fundal height measures only 25 cm (a discrepancy of more than 3-4 cm), the nurse should suspect IUGR. This finding must be reported to the healthcare provider for further investigation, typically an ultrasound, to assess fetal growth and amniotic fluid volume.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify that the question asks for the correct statement about fundal height at different gestational ages. This is a factual recall question.
Mentally review or visualize the progression of uterine growth during pregnancy and the corresponding anatomical landmarks.
Recall the key milestones: At 12 weeks, the fundus is at the symphysis pubis. At 20-24 weeks, it's at the umbilicus. At 36 weeks, it's at the xiphoid process.
Evaluate each option against these known facts.
Option A (6 weeks): Incorrect. The uterus is too small and still in the pelvis.
Option B (12 weeks): Incorrect. It should be at the symphysis pubis, not the umbilicus.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Fundal height measurement landmarks during pregnancy.
Stem keywords: fundal height, pregnancy, measurement, stages of pregnancy
Lead-in keywords: correct statement
Clinical cues: Age/sex group narrows the expected diagnosis, intervention, or normal reference range.

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Practise the full Haryana CHO - 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.