Fetplacentathicknessusmeas
A prenatal ultrasound examination that measures the thickness of the placenta to assess fetal and maternal health during pregnancy.
{"A safe, non-invasive ultrasound test to measure placental thickness","Helps evaluate placental function and detect potential pregnancy complications","Typically performed during the second or third trimester of pregnancy","Abnormal placental thickness may indicate issues requiring further monitoring","Results are used alongside other assessments to ensure healthy pregnancy"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12147-5
- Short code
- Fet Placenta Thickness US.meas
- Synonyms
- Fet Placenta Thickness US.meas
- Category
- cardiac
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-measured
- CPT
- 82553
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Fetal Placenta Thickness Ultrasound is a prenatal diagnostic imaging test that uses sound waves to create images of the placenta and measure its thickness. This examination is performed during pregnancy to assess placental health and function, which are crucial for supporting fetal growth and development. The test is typically conducted during the second or third trimester using a transabdominal ultrasound probe.
How is the test performed?
During the examination, you will lie on your back while a healthcare provider applies a special gel on your abdomen. A transducer device is then moved over the腹部 (abdomen) to capture sound wave reflections that create images of the placenta on a monitor. The sonographer will measure the placental thickness at its widest point. The procedure is painless and usually takes about 15-30 minutes. No special preparation, such as fasting, is typically required.
What do the results mean?
Normal placental thickness varies depending on the gestational age. Generally, the placental thickness in millimeters is approximately equal to the gestational age in weeks. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on your specific pregnancy timeline. Both abnormally thin and thick placentas may indicate potential concerns that require additional evaluation or monitoring.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the ultrasound safe for my baby?
Do I need to fast before the test?
What happens if my placental thickness is abnormal?
How often is this test performed?
Can placental thickness change throughout pregnancy?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy