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Growth & Development
Updated on 2 May 2023
Intrauterine growth restriction or IUGR in pregnancy refers to the underdevelopment or abnormal development of a fetus in the womb during pregnancy. Babies born with fetal growth restriction are called "small for gestational age". It can begin at any time during pregnancy and must be detected to prevent complications.
This article discusses the causes of IUGR In Pregnancy, its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. Read till the end.
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition caused due to restricted growth of the fetus in the womb. Herein, the fetal weight of the baby tends to be 10% of its gestational age. Furthermore, it affects the overall size of the fetus and the growth of its organs, cells and tissues. IUGR in pregnancy can occur at any point but is more common during the later phase of pregnancy.
The baby's body is smaller than its expected size. This type of IUGR accounts for 80% of IUGR cases.
The overall body of the baby is small in size. This type of IUGR accounts for 30% of IUGR cases.
IUGR diagnosis is typically made during prenatal care, specifically through ultrasound. In addition, the doctor may perform different tests such as:
It involves measuring the mother's belly from the top of the public bone to the uterus to check the baby's growth.
To measure the level of amniotic fluid and other placental issues.
To track the baby's heart rate and movements.
To detect any underlying genetic causes and development of the baby's lungs.
The doctor may also screen the pregnant woman for any infections that can affect the baby.
Intrauterine growth restriction or IUGR in pregnancy increases the risk of potential complications for the mother and the baby. These include:
It increases the risk of early labour and delivery, which may pose the threat of respiratory distress and developmental delays.
Babies born with IUGR have a low birth weight, making them more susceptible to infections.
A condition that causes the placenta to separate from the uterus.
A condition that restricts the amount of oxygen and nutrients reaching the baby.
The mother is at an increased risk of developing pregnancy-related conditions like hypertension, preeclampsia or eclampsia.
In severe cases, IUGR can cause stillbirth.
IUGR is often caused due to an insufficient supply of nourishment and nutrients to the placenta or umbilical cord. Intrauterine growth restriction can happen if the expecting mother:
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IUGR causes a restricted growth of the fetus that does not match the expected rate during pregnancy. It usually does not have any specific symptoms. The condition is generally identified during prenatal visits or through tests like ultrasound.
However, some of the common Intrauterine Growth Restriction symptoms a pregnant woman may experience include:
IUGR treatment depends primarily on the gestational age of the fetus along with the health of the mother and baby. Based on the situation, the doctor will closely monitor the condition through ultrasound, and prenatal visits and track the baby's growth.
Some treatments include:
The doctor will closely monitor the fetus's growth through regular prenatal care, including non-stress tests and ultrasound.
Doctors may prescribe some medications like a corticosteroid to improvise blood flow to the placenta and increase the nutrient supply to the fetus.
Some mothers may be advised bed rest to minimize stress on the fetus
If the mother's condition is severe or the doctor. identifies abnormal growth of the fetus, early labour and delivery through c-section may be recommended.
The mother will be advised to make dietary changes and may prescribe supplements to ensure the fetus is growing normally.
Note: The doctor may suggest a cesarean section if the stress in a vaginal delivery is risky for the fetus.
The baby's development and growth can be supported in several ways. These include:
Several health conditions put a pregnant woman at a higher risk of fetal growth restriction (FGR), also known as IUGR. These include:
Consulting a gynaecologist is essential to prevent worsening of IUGR in pregnancy and getting timely treatment.
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Written by
Ishmeet Kaur
Ishmeet is an experienced content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the internet industry. She is skilled in Editing, Public Speaking, Blogging, Creative Writing, and Social Media.
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