Uterine Size
by Donna Harvel Balo ARNP, CNM, MS

Q. Can you give me a ballpark for where your uterus should be at 8 weeks? My midwife had about 3-4 fingers underneath my bellybutton to where my uterus is. She said it's possible my uterus is just up really high, I could be furthur along, or it could be twins.

A. This may be a little confusing to explain, but here goes:

• At about 8 weeks, the uterus feels like the size of an orange.

• At about 12 weeks, it is up to the symphysis pubis (pubic bone).

• At about 16 weeks, it is between the symphysis pubis and the umbilicus.

• At around 20 weeks, it is level with your navel and cantaloupe-sized.

It is a little early to diagnose twins because of the size of the uterus. An early ultrasound may be indicated, for accurate dating.