What is the expected change in fundal height after 36 weeks?

What is the expected change in fundal height after 36 weeks?

• A. Decreases gradually
• B. Remains stable
• C. Increases by 1 cm weekly
• D. Decreases abruptly

Answer: (C)

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, it is expected that the fundal height continues to increase by approximately 1 cm per week until around 40 weeks. This increase corresponds with the growth of the fetus and the filling of the amniotic sac. The fundal height measurement, which is taken from the pubic symphysis to the top of the uterus, typically correlates with gestational age in weeks, particularly between 20 to 36 weeks. Once the pregnancy progresses beyond 36 weeks, the uterus becomes less able to accommodate further growth horizontally due to the limited space in the pelvic cavity, leading to a more stabilized fundal height – but initially, it still increases until full term. This increase is indicative of normal fetal growth and development in the late stages of pregnancy.

After 36 weeks of pregnancy, it is expected that the fundal height continues to increase by approximately 1 cm per week until around 40 weeks. This increase corresponds with the growth of the fetus and the filling of the amniotic sac. The fundal height measurement, which is taken from the pubic symphysis to the top of the uterus, typically correlates with gestational age in weeks, particularly between 20 to 36 weeks. Once the pregnancy progresses beyond 36 weeks, the uterus becomes less able to accommodate further growth horizontally due to the limited space in the pelvic cavity, leading to a more stabilized fundal height – but initially, it still increases until full term. This increase is indicative of normal fetal growth and development in the late stages of pregnancy.