At what gestational week is the uterus palpably located at the symphysis pubis?

At 12 weeks of gestation, the uterus has typically grown enough to be palpably located at the symphysis pubis. During early pregnancy, the uterus remains small and is situated within the pelvis, making it difficult to feel above the pubic bone. By around the end of the first trimester, the uterus has expanded and ascended out of the pelvis, allowing healthcare providers to examine it during a physical examination.

This change in position occurs because of the rapid growth of the uterus as it accommodates the developing fetus. At 8 weeks or earlier, the uterus is still largely confined to the pelvic cavity and cannot be palpated at that location. Similarly, at 6 weeks, the uterine size has not reached a point where it can be felt outside the pelvis. By 16 weeks, the uterus is typically higher and more easily palpable, but the specific point at which it is at the symphysis pubis correlates with the 12-week mark. Thus, identifying 12 weeks as the correct answer reflects an understanding of normal uterine development during early pregnancy.