Publication:

Assessment of symphysio-fundal height (SFH) and its implication during antenatal period

Background The aim of antenatal care is to ensure that every pregnancy is given the maximum chance to culminate in the delivery of a healthy baby without impairing the health of the mother. Symphysio fundal height (SFH) is an essential part of examination of pregnant women. In this study we discuss various formulas and USG for determining gestational age and applying them on our population.

Methods This is a prospective observational study done at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dhiraj General Hospital from January 2012 to January 2013. Total of 1056 eligible women were enrolled for the study.

Results According to our study, gestational age calculated by Mac Donald's formula and USG based on Tokyo & Osaka charts were more near to gestational age calculated by LMP. The gestational age calculated by USG based on European charts coincided with gestational age calculated by LMP up to 32 weeks, but after 32 weeks it did not correlate with LMP.

Conclusion In our population most of deliveries occur at home and primary centers, where facility for USG is not available. Hence application of Mac Donald's formula for calculating gestational age from SFH is a better option for detection of abnormal growth.