When measuring AC, which anatomical structures should not be included?

• A. Liver and spleen
• B. Heart or kidneys
• C. Stomach and intestines
• D. Lungs and diaphragm

Answer: (B)

Measuring abdominal circumference focuses on the size of the fetal abdomen itself. The plane is chosen at the level where you can see the stomach bubble and spine, and you trace the outer border of the abdomen—including the abdominal wall and its contents within the abdominal cavity. Structures that lie outside the abdomen or are not part of the abdominal cavity should not be included. The heart sits in the thorax above the diaphragm, and including it would distort the measurement of the abdomen. The kidneys, while located in the abdominal region, are retroperitoneal and not part of the abdominal wall contour you’re tracing for AC, so they should not dictate the circumference measurement. By excluding these non-abdominal structures, the AC reflects true fetal abdominal size and supports consistent growth assessment.