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DESCRIPTION
Intrauterine Growth Retardation (IUGR) is also known as a Small-for-Gestational-Age (SGA) Pregnancy. This definition is applied when the fetus is much smaller than expected for the length of the pregnancy. IUGR occurs in 1 in 10 pregnancies.
FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Usually no signs or symptoms occur. Diagnosis is based on prenatal examinations and ultrasound studies.
CAUSES
Chromosome abnormalities and/or infections of the fetus are often the cause of IUGR. In other cases, the placenta fails to provide adequate nutrients to the fetus. Most often, the placenta is normal, but is functioning abnormally. Abnormal placental anatomy, such as placenta previa or placental abruption, can result in IUGR.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Multiple fetuses.
Poor maternal nutrition.
Maternal illness, such as cyanotic heart disease, hypertension, anemia, diabetes mellitus with vascular involvement or sickle cell disease.
Smoking.
Fetal congenital abnormalities; chromosomal abnormalities.
Maternal drug addiction or alcohol abuse.
Fetal infections.
Maternal low pre-pregnant weight and low weight gain with pregnancy.
Previous pregnancy with an intrauterine growth retardation baby.
Living at a high altitude.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Avoidance of any of the risk factors that are within the control of the mother, such as smoking or alcohol abuse.
Genetic counseling prior to pregnancy.
Good medical care and management of any maternal chronic disorder listed in risk factors.
Good prenatal care.
If pregnant, avoid people with infections.
Proper nutrition and positive lifestyle habits. See MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index for more information about nutritional requirements and dietary plans for pregnancy and postpartum.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
For the mother without an underlying condition, the outcome is equivalent to a mother who delivers in average-for-gestational-age (AGA) baby. A cesarean section delivery may be necessary in cases of fetal distress.
For the infant without anomalities (a deviation from what is considered normal), abnormalities or infection, the prognosis is generally good for subsequent normal physical development and neurological outcomes.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Increased risk for fetal problems prior to, and at birth, such as lack of oxygen, low body weight, prematurity, low blood sugar and temperature instabilities.
Higher risk exists for congenital defects.
Risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
Long-term, the child may develop physical or neurological handicaps.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Any substances being abused by the mother need to be discontinued (smoking, alcohol, drugs).
Any maternal illness should be stabilized if possible.
Ongoing testing will be done once or twice weekly to assess the condition of the fetus.
Hospitalization may be required if outpatient steps are unsuccessful.
Labor may need to be induced or a cesarean section performed if fetal compromise is diagnosed or it is determined that the optimal time for delivery has been reached (the point at which the baby will do as well outside as inside the uterus).
MEDICATION
Low dose aspirin may be prescribed for some selected cases.
Medications or treatments will depend upon underlying causes.
ACTIVITY
Following diagnosis, complete bed rest is often recommended, while others may be on a limited activity routine. If bed rest is prescribed, lying on the left side helps promote blood flow and nutrition for the fetus.
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Bedrest Checklist
DIET
If poor nutrition is a problem, a special diet will be prescribed. Otherwise, a normal well-balanced pregnancy diet is recommended.
Note: Quality organically grown Bulk Herbs are available through Mountain Rose Herbs and Nutritional Supplements in tablet, tincture, powder, and extract forms are available through Herbal Remedies.com. See links below to both of these fine retailers of Nutritional Supplements.
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