What fundal height indicates a viable fetus at 23 weeks or more?

At 23 weeks of gestation or more, the fundal height typically corresponds to the gestational age of the fetus, measured from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus (fundus). A fundal height that is at the last rib and above indicates that the uterus has grown sufficiently to accommodate a viable fetus, which is consistent with the expected growth patterns during pregnancy.

As the pregnancy progresses, the fundal height should correspond closely to the gestational age. By 23 weeks, the top of the uterus is expected to be at or above the level of the last rib, reflecting adequate fetal growth and development. This is a key sign of a healthy pregnancy, as it shows that the fetus is growing typically for that stage.

The other options represent levels of fundal height that would either be below expectations or indicate a potential problem. For example, being at the pubic bone level or below the umbilicus at this gestational age could suggest that the fetus is not growing adequately or that there may be issues with the pregnancy. Being at the level of the belly button, while not necessarily indicative of an issue, still does not represent the expected growth observed at 23 weeks or beyond.