What does it mean when...

[finallypregnant]

You measure 37 weeks pregnant at just under 39 weeks? I have to go back again next week to be measured again (at hospital rather than GP surgery) but my midwife was on her own so sort of flew through my appointment yesterday because of such a big backlog. We didn't really get the chance to talk about what it means.

usually .... nothing! In fact I'm surprised they're monitoring you next week. Do a search for 'measuring small for dates' or similar on here & you'll get LOADS of threads. Essentially, fundal measurement is a very blunt tool, and works for 'average' women. And I'm sure no-one would describe themselves as average . Plus it depends on the mw getting the tape at just the right place on the pelvis. Which often doesn't happen (it would be easy for eg for two mws to measure you & come up with two different measurements - I certainly had this)
I measured 2-4 cm small throughout both pgs. Had two healthy babies (although on the small side - a good thing imo!) & no mw concerns.

Thank you!

I had this week before last, measuring 2 weeks small. Went to see consultant and measured fine and again this week at midwife all was fine. To be honest i think my midwife was in a rush and didn't do it right first time.

Try not to worry.

This happened with me with DS1 . We went for a scan ,which showed he was nice and big.
He was under my ribs, which was very uncomfrtable for me, but meant my bump wasn't massive

Firstly, a MW feeling by prodding you is a very inexact science and is often wrong.

Especially when you are further along in your pg, the baby could have its head or feet stuck under your ribs or in your pelvis and she would not then be able to feel the full size of the baby.

Secondly, if the 37 weeks measurement does happen to be correct, then perhaps the baby is a teeny bit small, but we're not talking teeny weeny, we're talking perhaps a couple of pounds difference, which at this stage is not going to be a problem.

I really wouldn't worry about it at all, just make sure your bag is packed if you are 39 weeks