Symphysis-fundal measurement as a predictor of low birthweight

Objective: To prospectively test the value of a symphysis-fundal measuremen t in labor of less than or equal to 29 cm as a predictor of birth mass belo w 2000 g. Method: Women admitted to Kalafong Hospital in labor with a singleton pregn ancy were included in the study. Symphysis-fundal measurement according to the method of Westin was performed on two separate occasions and recorded t ogether with other pertinent details. A receiver-operator curve was constru cted to test various cut-off measurements. Results: A total of 1216 women were included in the study. One hundred twen ty-one fetuses had a birth mass less than 2000 g (10%). A measurement of le ss than or equal to 29 cm had a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 98% with a positive predictive Value of 81% and a negative predictive value of 97%. On the, receiver-operator curve a cutoff of 30 cm showed a better sen sitivity with little loss-of specificity. Conclusion: A symphysis-fundal measurement of less than or equal to 29 cm i s a good predictor of birth mass less than 2000 g and can be used as an ind ication for referral to centres with neonatal facilities. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.