Symphysio-fundal height as predictor of low birth weight: a cross-sectional study at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Low birth weight (LBW) is strongly associated with increased risk of neonatal morbidity and mortality in low-income countries. Early prenatal identification of LWB is necessary to decrease complications and optimize management of newborn. The objective of this study is to ascertain the usefulness of symphysio-fundal height as a predictor of LBW. Two hundred and four parturient who presented early in labour at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) from 1^st January to 31^st September 2010 were included in the study. The mean of three symphysio-fundal height measurements (SFH) was taken for each parturient and demorgraphic data collected with a structured questionnaire. The birth weight of the baby, the SFH measure and the demographic data was collated and analyzed using SPSS version 15. Thirteen babies (6.4%) had a birth weight <2.5kg. A SFH measurement of ≤30cm predicted LBW in babies and this had a sensitivity of 42.9% and a specificity of 99.5% with a positive predictive value of 85.7% and a negative predictive value of 95.9%. Since SFH measurement of ≤30cm is a good predictor of birth weight (LBW), it can be used as a cut-off point in peripheral hospitals for referral to centers with adequate neonatal intensive care facilities.

Keywords: symphysio-fundal height, low birth weight, predicting low birth weight