Definition
Abdominal Girth is the measurement of distance around the abdomen at specific point (Belly Button).

Purpose
- To determine the growth of the fetus in relation to Gestational Weeks. ( In Obstetrics )
- To notice obesity.
- To detect abdominal distention.
- To measure abdominal fat which increases risk of coronary heart disease.
Equipment
- Flexible metal tape.
- Pen for making mark.
Procedure
- Explain the procedure to the mother to gain her confidence.
- Instruct mother to empty her bladder, it will helpful for relaxation of abdominal muscles and accuracy of finding.
- Arrange all the articles near the bedside.
- Provide privacy to the mother.
- Mother lie on her back with support under head and knees.
Methods
- By Measurement Tape
- By Finger Method
- By Measurement Tape
- Lay a cloth or soft plastic measuring tape on mother’s abdomen, holding the 0 on tape at the top of the pubic bone.
- Follow the curve of her abdomen, and hold the tape at the top of her uterus (Fundus of uterus).
- Write down the number of centimeters from the top of pubic bone to the top of uterus.
- By Finger Method
- While touching the abdomen it should be firm but gentle.
- Walk our fingers up from the side of her abdomen until we feel the top of her abdomen under the skin, it feel like a hard ball.
At term the abdominal girth is 100cm. with mother of normal BMI.