Comparison of maternal anthropometry and a single symphysis fundal height measurement as a screening test for low birth weight babies

Abstract

Objective To compare a single pre-delivery symphysis fundal height (SFH) measurement and maternal anthropometric measurements as screening methods for low birth weight (LBW). Material and methods SFH, weight, height and mid. upper arm circumference (MUAC) were measured in 525 consecutive pregnant women carrying singleton pregnancies admitted for delivery. Birthweight was recorded. Results 46 percent of the observed variation in birthweight of babies from singleton pregnancies is explained by the SFH. The predelivery height, weight, body mass index (BMl) and MUAC had less influence on birthweight. A SFH measurement of 34 cm or less detected 75 of 93 LBW babies. The sensitivity and specificity were 80.6 percent and 74.8 percent respectively. The negative predictive value at SFH of 34 cm or less was 94.7 percent. Conclusion A single pre-delivery SFH is a better screening test for LBW than pre-delivery maternal height, weight, BMI or MUAC and 95 percent of mothers with a SFH measurement of more than 34 cm delivered a baby weighing more than 2500g.