Fetal Measurements and Ultrasound Assessments

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to fetal measurements and ultrasound assessments.

Fetal Age Assessment

The process of predicting fetal maturity, detecting growth restriction, and guiding management including expected delivery date.

Menstrual Age (MA)

Fetal age based on the first day of the last menstrual period; most commonly used but often inaccurate.

Gestational Age (GA)

Fetal age determined from the date of fertilization; typically known for IVF pregnancies.

Ultrasound Accuracy

The deviation from the actual measurement, typically evaluated by the standard deviation which indicates measurement errors.

First Trimester Exam

An ultrasound examination performed early in pregnancy to confirm intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) and evaluate uterus and adnexa.

Biophysical Profile (BPP)

A specialized ultrasound test that checks fetal well-being by assessing breathing, movement, muscle tone, amniotic fluid, and non-stress test results.

Crown–Rump Length (CRL)

The most accurate measurement of the embryo used from 6 to 14 weeks of pregnancy, measuring the longest axis from head to buttocks.

Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI)

A measurement of the amount of amniotic fluid, calculated by measuring the deepest vertical pocket in each of four quadrants of the uterus.

Cervical Length Measurement

The assessment of the internal and external os of the cervix to evaluate the risk for preterm labor; normal length is ≥ 2.5 cm.

Doppler Studies

Ultrasound tests that measure blood flow in the umbilical cord, brain, or placenta.

Placental Grading

A classification of placental maturity based on ultrasound appearance, indicating the developmental stage of the placenta.

Interval Growth

Measures how the fetus grows between two ultrasound visits to assess growth status.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

A condition in which a fetus's growth is slower than expected, potentially leading to health problems.

Nuchal Translucency (NT)

The fluid-filled space at the back of a fetus's neck measured during the first trimester for assessing Down syndrome risk.