Intrauterine Growth Retardation
Alternate Names : Low Birth Weight, Small for Gestational Age, Dysmaturity, Intrauterine Growth Restriction
What can be done to prevent the disease?
Most cases of IUGR cannot be prevented, especially if they are due to genetic
causes. Some cases can be prevented by taking the following precautions:
avoiding risk factors for the TORCH
infections
eliminating use of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs
careful monitoring and early treatment for high blood pressure and
diabetes
eating a diet high in folate
before and during pregnancy to protect against certain birth defects
What are the long-term effects of the disease?
Long-term effects in the fetus before or during delivery include the following:
premature delivery
poor tolerance of labor
increased chances of a C-section,
or delivery of the baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen
increased risk of birth defects
asphyxia, or too little oxygen, at birth, which may lead to cerebral palsy
Long-term effects in the infant after delivery include the following:
temperature instability
hypoglycemia, or low blood
sugar
difficulty fighting infection
death
Complications later in childhood may include:
learning disabilities
mental retardation
What are the risks to others?
IUGR is not contagious, but it does pose a risk for the fetus. IUGR may also
occur in future pregnancies.
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