Symphysis-fundal height measurement in pregnancy

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In many settings, symphysis-fundal height measurement has replaced clinical assessment of fetal size by abdominal palpation because the latter has been reported to perform poorly. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to assess the effects of routine use of symphysis-fundal height measurements (tape measurement of the distance from the pubic symphysis to the uterine fundus) during antenatal care on pregnancy outcome. SEARCH STRATEGY: The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register was searched. SELECTION CRITERIA: Acceptably controlled trials comparing symphysis-fundal height measurement with assessment by abdominal palpation alone. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: One reviewer assessed trial quality and extracted data. MAIN RESULTS: One trial involving 1639 women was included. No differences were detected in any of the outcomes measured. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: There is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of symphysis-fundal height measurements during antenatal care.