Parturient abdominal circumference as a predictor of low birthweight.

The usefulness of parturient abdominal circumference as a predictor of low birthweight (LBW) was studied in 151 singleton pregnancies. The abdominal circumference was measured in early labour and was plotted against the birthweight of the newborns. A significant positive correlation was observed between the two parameters (r = +0.507). For the prediction of LBW, the critical limit of the abdominal circumference was 86 cm, which means that an abdominal circumference of more than 86 cm is reasonably safe while lesser values predict a higher chance of a LBW infant. From these observations, the use of a colour-coded tape by peripheral health workers and traditional birth attendants is suggested: red for abdominal circumference <82 cm, yellow for abdominal circumference 82-86 cm, and green for abdominal circumference >86 cm. Mothers who have an abdominal circumference in the 'red zone' are at risk of delivering LBW infants.