How accurate on baby weight is ultrasound? when i had my babies, there was nothing like this, but my daughter (grandbaby on the way) had hers she said they could tell the weight. really? how accurate is this? just want a big healthy grandbaby!

Yes, : Yes, the baby's weight is estimated on every pregnancy ultrasound. The ultrasound technologist measures the head width, head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length, and occasionally other measurements. These measurements are then entered into a formula which calculates the estimated fetal weight. This formula and estimation are based on population averages and is therefore subject to normal variation. The estimated fetal weight is quite accurate early on during pregnancy, and less accurate as the pregnancy progresses. At full term, the actual fetal weight can vary by more than 1 pound. The estimated fetal weight is useful to the obstetrician in order to indicate whether or not baby is growing appropriately.

Not too big or small: Big birthweight babies are more prone to diabetes, as is the mother. Smaller birthweight babies have more immediate problems, and are associated with maternal smoking, malnutrition, and other issues. 7 1/2 lbs to 8 1/2 are most desirable.