Focusing on the baby’s progress as it develops is only natural during pregnancy. After all, each new development gets you one step closer to holding your baby in your arms. The diagnosis of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is concerning since it indicates that the baby’s growth and development rate within the uterus is slower than normal. Although there are dangers connected with IUGR, doctors may detect it early and use a number of techniques to keep an eye on your unborn child all the way up to birth. In this article we are going to talk about Intrauterine Growth Restriction or IUGR: What you Need to Know. The important role that ultrasounds plays in diagnosing IUGR, and some tips to prevent IUGR from happening in the first place.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction or IUGR: What you Need to Know.
Let’s Start by Defining What Exactly IUGR is?
The term “intrauterine growth restriction” is abbreviated in the medical field as IUGR. Also known as FGR that stands for fetal growth restriction. In the case of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), the baby develops at a rate that is significantly lower than what would be considered normal throughout pregnancy. According to the definition provided by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), an estimated fetal weight that is below the 10th percentile for gestational age is considered to be IUGR or FGR.
IUGR is a condition that affects only around 5–7 percent of babies born in the United States these days; It is important to emphasize that not all babies born with a low birth weight below the tenth percentile have IUGR. Babies that are genetically smaller without having IUGR are known as “constitutionally small fetuses or (CSF)”. Therefore, there are causes that justify the low birth weight of a baby, these causes may be due to the following reasons:
- Small parental size.
- Low number of previous births.
- Fetal female sex.
- Parental race or ethnicity.
Causes of IUGR.
There are several potential causes of IUGR, and occasionally there is a mix of these causes. The four most prevalent causes of IUGR, according to medical professionals, are placental (the most frequent), environmental, maternal (such as a medical condition), and fetal (such as a genetic abnormality or infection).
IUGR Might Result from:
- Problems with the placenta and irregularities in the umbilical cord (these may cause baby not to receive enough oxygen and nutrients in the womb).
- Disorders affecting the mother’s health, such as diabetes type 1, renal illness, autoimmune disease, cardiac disease, and hypertension associated to pregnancy are examples of such conditions.
- Multiple gestation (Twin or more babies).
- Use of addictive chemicals and/or exposure to teratogens (teratogens are substances that may cause birth defects, such as recreational drugs and alcohol).
- Exposure to several contagious illnesses (malaria, cytomegalovirus or CMV, toxoplasmosis, rubella and syphilis)
- Genetic and structural abnormalities in the baby.
Two Kinds of IUGR Exist.
- Symmetric or primary. Babies born with this type have smaller internal organs. Almost 25 percent of all cases are symmetric IUGR. This type occurs earlier in pregnancy and may be due to a genetic disorder or infection.
- Asymmetric or secondary. In this type, the abdomen is smaller while the head and the brain are regular in size. This kind of IUGR typically happens later in pregnancy. Issues like problems with the placenta can cause it.
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IUGR Signs and Symptoms.
Unfortunately, there are no signs to watch out for when it comes to intrauterine growth restriction. Instead, IUGR is frequently assumed when the fundal height measurement of the mother is not expanding adequately and is therefore small. The fundal height is measured in centimeters and is defined as the distance that can be measured from the top of the pubic bone to the top of the uterus. At each appointment, the doctor will look for a specified rate of growth in the fundal height.
IUGR Diagnosis.
The most important test that is used today to diagnose an IUGR is a fetal ultrasound. The ultrasound will simply take the measurements of the baby and will give a result in percentiles, which is what will confirm or not the presence of IUGR. Based on the results of the initial ultrasound, other more specific ultrasounds will be ordered to determine the exact cause of the IUGR.
IUGR is a condition that cannot be cured but can be managed. This implies that you will be monitored continuously and will have checkups at regular intervals during your pregnancy. Your physician may use ultrasound to look for any anomalies in the baby’s physical development. During the examination a biophysical profile will be extremely helpful to evaluate fetal breathing, movement, tone and Amniotic fluid, all those signs speak about your baby’s wellbeing. Also, a Doppler Ultrasound will be helpful to evaluate the blood flow through the umbilical cord.
Your doctor will be able to assess whether or not the placenta is functioning well by monitoring the baby’s heart rate and blood flow. Since problems with the placenta are a major cause of IUGR, this is an especially essential consideration. Your doctor may also suggest that you get an amniocentesis or seek genetic counseling. This is because genetic problems are another potential cause of IUGR.
Can Intrauterine Growth Restriction or IUGR be Prevented?
When the causes of IUGR are related to genetic or placental problems there is really nothing you can do. However, there are some steps you can take to prevent other causes of IUGR. These tips below will greatly help you to prevent IUGR.
Go to Prenatal Visits:
During your prenatal checkups, your doctor will examine both your health and the health of your unborn child. Your primary care physician or another qualified medical professional will advise you on the frequency of your prenatal checkups. It’s possible that they’ll suggest you come in for regular checkups in order to assist you avoid IUGR.
Don’t Smoke:
The nicotine included in cigarettes raises the likelihood of complications involving the placenta. Additionally, nicotine results in a kid having a lower birth weight as well as other medical issues. You should not use smokeless tobacco or electronic cigarettes as a replacement for cigarettes or as a tool to help you quit smoking. They do still have nicotine in them. If you are a smoker and are looking for assistance in quitting, you should seek advice from your healthcare professional.
Stay Away from Drugs and Alcohol:
Like nicotine, the effects of all recreational drugs and alcohol have a detrimental effect on a developing baby. Therefore, before, during and even during the breastfeeding stage, it is best not to consume drugs or alcohol.
Consume a Wide Variety of Nutritious Foods:
Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, legumes, and dairy products with a lower fat content are examples of items that contribute to a healthy diet. Consuming a diet rich in nutritious meals can assist in the prevention of diabetes as well as the healthy growth of weight during pregnancy.
Take your Prenatal Vitamins:
Folic acid should be present in the vitamins in an amount of at least 4,000 micrograms. Folic acid is helpful in preventing birth problems like spina bifida and other similar conditions. Your healthcare professional will be able to guide you in making an informed decision about which prenatal vitamin is best for you. As soon as you find out you are pregnant start taking your prenatal vitamins.
Take Plenty of Liquids to Stay Hydrated.
Consuming more liquids can assist in the prevention of both dehydration and high blood pressure.
Manage Medical Conditions like Diabetes, Hypertension or any others Appropriately:
Diabetes can lead to complications for your child, including an excessive amount of weight growth. If you have diabetes, you and your healthcare practitioner should work together to maintain your blood sugar levels before to and throughout your next pregnancy.
Practice Good Hygiene Habits, As well as Same Sex Partner:
Infections such as malaria, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, rubella and/or syphilis can cause severe disorders during pregnancy, among those disorders you’ll find IUGR. Therefore, practicing healthy habits of cleanliness and hygiene, as well as avoiding sexual relations with multiple partners will keep you healthy during pregnancy as well as your baby.
What Does a Diagnosis of IUGR Mean for the Baby?
IUGR babies do run the risk of certain complications. There is a risk of placental problems, which can result in decreased levels of oxygen being supplied to the baby, as well as a slightly increased chance of stillbirth and death after birth. Additionally, there is a slightly increased risk of stillbirth. This can result in brain damage in the developing fetus and raise the chance of cerebral palsy. The chance of a stillbirth is 1.5 percent for infants whose estimated fetal weight is less than the 10th percentile; this risk rises to 2.5 percent for infants whose estimated fetal weight is less than the fifth percentile. For these reasons your visit to the doctor will be more frequent throughout pregnancy, mainly during second and third trimesters.
What a Diagnosis of Intrauterine Growth Restriction or IUGR Means for the Delivery Process.
If you have been diagnosed with IUGR, there are two key points to keep in mind throughout the delivery process. To begin, there is a possibility that you will not give delivery through the vaginal route. Fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction have a greater risk of developing fetal intolerance of labor, which increases the possibility that they may need to be delivered through cesarean section. If you do decide to try giving birth vaginally, both you and the baby will be closely observed during the whole delivery process. During labor, infants that are smaller than average could not have sufficient reserves; as a result, their heart rate might slow down, and there might be an increased risk of fetal distress. Women can, however, proceed with a vaginal birth if the baby is doing well during labor and everything else is proceeding normally.
When IUGR is present, it is also likely that the baby will be born before 40 weeks. If the results of the tests indicate that the baby is doing well, the SMFM guidelines recommend delivering the baby between the ages of 38 and 39 weeks. However, the guidelines recommend delivering the baby earlier than 37 weeks if it appears that there may be an increased risk for complications or stillbirth. If it becomes necessary for you to give birth before 37 weeks, your physician may prescribe corticosteroids for you. These medications promote the development of vital organs, such as the lungs, and offer the infant a higher chance of surviving if they are delivered prematurely.
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Final Thoughts about Intrauterine Growth Restriction or IUGR: What you Need to Know.
In addition to being tiny for their gestational age, many newborns with IUGR are generally perfectly healthy. Your doctor will advise the best course of action if your baby is found to have IUGR in order to avoid and treat any negative effects.
Prenatal care is crucial throughout pregnancy for both you and your unborn child. Avoiding risk factors like smoking or drinking while pregnant can help prevent IUGR.
Zadi, xo
Disclaimer: The medical information on this post is for educational and entertainment use only. Under no circumstances, this information is to replace your doctor’s advice or to treat any disease. For proper care, always visit your doctor.
