What it means
In pregnancy, the fundal height (the distance in centimeters between the pubic bone and the top of the uterus) roughly matches the weeks of pregnancy from about 20 to 36 weeks. After birth, the fundus should feel firm and comes down about 1 cm a day. A soft ("boggy") fundus after birth means the uterus is not contracting well (uterine atonyYOO-ter-in AT-uh-neeWeak or absent tightening of the uterus muscle after childbirth.a- withoutton tone, tension-y conditionFull entry ). The stomach and the back of the eye also have a fundus.
For the nurse
After birth, check the fundus for firmness, height and position, with the client's bladder empty. If it is soft, massage it until firm and report it. Support the lower uterus with one hand while massaging with the other.
At a glance
| Spanish | fondo uterino |
|---|---|
| Also written | fundal |
Related terms
postpartum
The time after giving birth, usually the first six weeks, while the body returns to its non-pregnant state.
massage
Rubbing, pressing or kneading the body's soft tissues to relax muscles, ease pain or improve blood flow.
symphysis
A joint where two bones are joined firmly by a pad of cartilage that allows only a little movement.
uterine atony
Weak or absent tightening of the uterus muscle after childbirth.