This article discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment of fetal growth restriction (FGR).
Almost one in ten pregnancies worldwide experience fetal growth restriction (FGR), often referred to as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), one of the most prevalent pregnancy problems. It occurs when an unborn child does not develop according to their gestational age, frequently as a result of placental issues, maternal illnesses, or other issues.
Serious health hazards, such as early birth, low oxygen levels, and in extreme situations, stillbirth, can result from FGR if treatment is not received. However, results can be greatly enhanced by early discovery and appropriate medical treatment. Everything you need to know about FGR is right here, including its causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Fetal Growth Restriction (FGR): What is it?
When a baby’s weight falls below the 10th percentile for its gestational age, it is known as FGR. Simply put, at a certain point in the pregnancy, the baby is smaller than it should be. The development of the baby’s organs, tissues, and cells as well as its overall size and weight may be impacted.
FGR comes in two primary varieties:
Symmetrical FGR: The head and other body components of the infant grow at the same, but slower, pace. This frequently happens as a result of early pregnancy infections or genetic problems.
Asymmetrical FGR: The baby’s body or abdomen is smaller than its head, which is typical in size. Placental issues that arise later in pregnancy are frequently the cause of this.
FGR Symptoms and Indications
Many pregnant women are unaware of the symptoms at first. During an ultrasound or check-up, doctors may notice that the baby is small, or some women may feel that their belly isn’t growing as it should.
Other typical indicators consist of:
- decreased movements of the fetus
- Low amniotic fluid levels
- A smaller uterus than anticipated
It’s critical to consult your healthcare practitioner if you have any concerns. Frequent monitoring and ultrasounds can aid in the early detection of FGR.
What Leads to Restriction of Fetal Growth?
Numerous maternal, fetal, or placental factors may contribute to FGR:
Maternal Causes:
- Hypertension or preeclampsia
- Inadequate nourishment
- Using drugs, alcohol, or smoking
- Autoimmune diseases or diabetes
- Maternal weight: low or high
- Lung or kidney disease
- Anaemia
Fetal Causes:
- Chromosome or genetic problems (like Down syndrome)
- Birth defects that are congenital
- Toxoplasmosis and rubella infections
- Multiple pregnancies, including triplets and twins
Placental Causes:
- Placental insufficiency, or poor placental function
- Placental attachment abnormalities
- Blood flow through the umbilical cord is restricted.
How Do We Handle FGR?
Although there isn’t a single treatment for FGR, early identification and careful observations are essential. Options for treatment could include:
- Regular ultrasounds to monitor the baby’s development
- Modifications to one’s lifestyle, such as eating high protein food, quit smoking, etc.
- Drugs to treat conditions in mothers
- If the baby is in danger and cannot grow further in the pregnancy, an early delivery may be necessary.
Many pregnancies plagued by FGR end well with frequent prenatal care and assistance from a fetal medicine specialist.
Concluding:
Don’t disregard the symptoms if you’re worried about your unborn child’s growth during pregnancy. Although fetal growth limitation can be dangerous, it can be efficiently treated with early detection and appropriate treatment. Always follow up with your physician and attend the scans as planned. The health of your unborn child depends on it.