INTRAUTERINE GROWTH RESTRICTION
What is intrauterine growth restriction(IUGR)?
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) means the unborn baby is not growing properly. The baby's weight is lower than it should be for its stage of pregnancy.
The baby on the left is IUGR. The baby on the right is a normal newborn.
How does it occur?
- women who do not have a balanced diet
- women who are unhealthy
- teenagers
- women who weigh very little before they become pregnant
- women who have had a small baby before
- women who take certain medications(ask your doctor)
Conditions that can cause IUGR include:
- high blood pressure
- kidney disease
- diabetes (sugar problems)
- heart disease
- low iron
- not eating properly
- placenta not giving food to baby properly
- certain infections that affect the baby
- genetic chromosomal problems
- pregnancies with more than one baby
What are the symptoms?
Often the mother does not gain weight as expected.
Examination by the doctor may show that the uterus is not growing at the rate it should.
How is IUGR diagnosed?
When the doctor thinks your baby might be IUGR, he or she may order an ultrasound scan to measure the baby.
How is IUGR treated?
When IUGR is suspected:
- Your doctor will examine you, measure the size of your uterus with a tape measure, and estimate the size of your baby.
- Your doctor will order ultrasound scans done at regular intervals.
- You may be told to stop or reduce working, rest more often or stay in bed, or consult a dietician to improve your diet.
- Your doctor will attempt to correct any medical problems that may be the cause of IUGR.
- Your doctor will examine you for any infections that may be slowing down the baby's growth.
- Nonstress tests will be done once or twice a week.
|