[The fundal height measurements in single pregnancies and the detection of fetal growth retardation]. / La mesure de la hauteur utérine dans les grossesses uniques et le dépistage des retards de croissance intra-utérins.

ABSTRACT

Symphysis fundus measurements are a reliable mean for screening of fetal growth retardation. The techniques of the measurements, the curves of normality, and the efficiency of this method are discussed. A single formula is put forward to identify the patients witch can profit by extra ultrasound examinations and special clinical surveillance. In France, ultrasound examinations are scheduled at 22 and 32 weeks. Between 22 and 32 weeks, and after 32 weeks, symphysis fundus measurements are needed to suspect intra uterine fetal retardation, and, following suspicion, a new ultrasound examination is helpful.