High Risk Pregnancies
- Gestational Diabetes
- Preeclampsia
- Preterm Labor
- Post-term Pregnancy
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)
- Polyhydramnios
- Oligohydramnios
- Placenta abruption and previa
- Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS)
10 things to know about Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)
- Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition in which the baby’s growth is suboptimal for its gestational age.
- IUGR occurs in both preterm and term babies.
- Babies with IUGR are called SGA or Small for Gestational Age.
- Causes for IUGR include
- Reduced blood flow to the placenta
- Birth defects
- Infections
- Smoking
- Drug use
- The conditions with increased risk of IUGR include
- Diabetes
- Chronic hypertension
- Preeclampsia
- Severe malnutrition
- IUGR is suspected during a routine exam with smaller than expected uterine size. Diagnosis is confirmed by ultrasound.
- Reduce risk of having an infant with IUGR by
- Receive preconception counseling for management of chronic problems like diabetes, hypertension
- Attend regular prenatal care
- Stop smoking and drug use
- IUGR babies are at risk for stillbirth.
- IUGR is monitored closely with Kick Count, nonstress tests and repeat ultrasounds every 2-3 weeks. Delivery time depends on baby’s gestational age and severity of growth restriction.
- Most IUGR babies may have sign of distress during labor. Most can be delivered vaginally. Some may require delivery by cesarean section.
