The Pill — What Every Woman Deserves to Know
Clear, honest answers about oral contraceptive pills — written for you, not for a textbook.
Eating healthy during pregnancy is one of the most important ways to support your baby’s growth and your own well-being. Good nutrition does not need expensive foods or complicated diets. It simply means choosing everyday meals that give steady energy, keep you strong, and help your baby develop safely.
The Basics
I feel like my tummy is small… should I be worried?
It is very natural to compare your bump with others and feel concerned if it looks smaller. Every pregnancy is different, and tummy size can vary from woman to woman. However, if there is a concern that your tummy is measuring smaller than expected, your doctor will assess this carefully using simple and reliable steps.
How do doctors check if my tummy is small?
The first step is a simple measurement called the symphysis–fundal height (SFH).
This means your doctor or nurse will measure the height from your pubic bone (symphysis) to the top of your uterus/womb (fundus)
This measurement is then compared with your weeks of pregnancy (period of gestation).
For example, around 28 weeks, your measurement is usually close to 28 cm (with some normal variation).
How It Works
What if my measurement is smaller than expected?
If your SFH measurement is smaller than your gestational age, your doctor will arrange an ultrasound scan.
This is the next important step to understand what is happening.
What does the ultrasound scan check?
The scan will help your doctor see:
- Your baby’s size and growth
- The amount of water (amniotic fluid/ liquor) around the baby
- Blood flow to the baby (in some cases)
After this, your doctor will explain whether:
- Your baby is small but healthy, or
- There is a concern, such as reduced fluid, or
- Your baby may have fetal growth restriction (FGR)
What is the difference between a small baby and fetal growth restriction?
Not all small babies are unhealthy.
- Small but healthy baby (SGA – Small for Gestational Age):
- Your baby is naturally small
- Growth is steady and normal
- There are no signs of distress
- Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR):
- Your baby is not growing as expected inside the womb
This may be due to problems with the placenta or blood flow and therefore needs closer monitoring and care
What are the types of fetal growth restriction?
Doctors describe FGR in two ways:
- Symmetrical FGR
The whole baby is proportionally small. Often starts early in pregnancy and can be related to genetic conditions or early pregnancy factors like maternal infections
- Asymmetrical FGR
The baby’s head is normal, but the body is smaller. Usually happens later in pregnancy and is often due to problems with the placenta/ afterbirth (placental insufficiency)
How is fetal growth restriction managed?
If FGR is suspected, your care will be more closely monitored. This may include:
- Regular ultrasound scans to check growth
- Doppler scans to assess blood flow to the baby
- Monitoring the amount of water in the water bag (amniotic fluid)
- Checking your baby’s movements and wellbeing
Your doctor will decide the best time for delivery based on your baby’s growth pattern, blood flow results, and your stage of pregnancy. Sometimes, early delivery may be recommended if the baby is not thriving inside the womb.
What can I do as a mother?
You can support your baby’s wellbeing by:
- Attending all antenatal clinic visits
- Monitoring your baby’s movements
- Eating a balanced diet
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol
- Seeking help if you notice reduced baby movements
If your tummy feels small, it does not always mean something is wrong. Most small babies are healthy, but identifying those who need extra care early helps ensure the best outcomes. If you ever feel unsure or worried, trust your instincts and speak to your doctor- you are doing the right thing for your baby.
Sources & References
This leaflet is based on guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), and the NHS.
It is intended as general information and does not replace personalised medical advice.
Last reviewed April 2026 · Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping contraception · NHS.uk · NICE.org.uk · RCOG.org.uk