Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and small for gestational age (SGA) are two terms that are often used interchangeably to describe a condition in which a fetus is smaller than expected for their gestational age. However, there are significant differences between the two. If you’re expecting and concerned about your baby’s growth, consult Dr Tejas Tamhane, the best fetal medicine specialist in Pune. You will get Intrauterine Growth Restriction treatment In Pune at Precious Clinic for Advanced Fetal Medicine.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction Treatment In Pune
What is Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)?
Normal fetal growth is primarily determined by the genetic growth potential and can be influenced by factors like maternal, fetal or placental. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or fetal growth restriction is a condition where the growth potential is not reached due to an abnormality in any of these aspects. In cases of IUGR, a fetus is not growing at the expected rate during pregnancy, leading to a baby that is smaller than normal for its gestational age.
Causes of IUGR:
1. Maternal Factors:
- Preeclampsia
- Hypertension
- Smoking, alcohol use, substance abuse
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Chronic illnesses
2. Fetal Factors:
- Genetic disorders
- Chromosomal abnormalities
- Congenital infections
- Multiple pregnancies
3. Placental Factors:
- Placental insufficiency
- Placental abruption
- Placenta previa
Diagnosis of IUGR
IUGR is diagnosed through:
- Ultrasound scans – Assessing fetal biometry (head circumference, abdominal circumference, femur length)
- Doppler studies – Monitoring the blood in the uterine arteries, umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery and ductus venosus to evaluate placental function.
- Amniotic fluid index – Low amniotic fluid levels (oligohydramnios) may indicate IUGR.
What Is Small for Gestational Age (SGA)?
Small for Gestational Age (SGA) is a term used for a baby who is smaller than the typical size for their gestational age but their growth may not necessarily be restricted like in IUGR. SGA is used to describe a baby that is smaller than the 10th percentile for gestational age. Unlike IUGR, SGA may not be caused by a pathological condition and could simply be a variation of normal fetal growth.
Causes of Small for Gestational Age
1. Constitutional Factors:
- Small parental stature or family history of small babies
- Ethnic or genetic variations in fetal growth patterns
2. Environmental Factors:
- High-altitude pregnancies
- Maternal diet and lifestyle
Diagnosis of SGA
- Ultrasound Measurements: Fetal growth assessments during routine scans.
- Birth Weight Percentiles: Babies born with a weight below the 10th percentile are classified as SGA.
Key Differences Between IUGR and SGA
| Aspect | Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) | Small for Gestational Age (SGA) |
| Definition | Pathological restriction of fetal growth | A descriptive term that simply means the fetus is smaller than expected |
| Causes | Due to maternal, placental or fetal pathology | Often due to constitutional or environmental factors |
| Diagnosis | Ultrasound, Doppler studies, abnormal growth patterns | Ultrasound, Doppler studies and birth weight percentile |
| Risk Factors | Preeclampsia, placental insufficiency, infections | Small parental size, genetic factors |
| Neonatal Outcomes | Higher risk of complications | Often healthy with normal outcomes |
| Management | Close monitoring, early delivery if necessary | Regular monitoring, usually no intervention required |
Small for Gestational Age & Intrauterine Growth Restriction Treatment In Pune
IUGR Management
- Regular ultrasounds and Doppler studies to monitor the well-being of the fetus.
- Optimising maternal health through a balanced diet, management of chronic conditions and avoiding smoking or substance abuse.
- In severe cases, early delivery may be required to prevent any complications.
SGA Management
- Routine monitoring to ensure normal growth and development
Intrauterine Growth Restriction Treatment In Pune
IUGR can be a worrisome condition for expectant parents, making timely diagnosis and the right care essential. If you are seeking specialised Intrauterine Growth Restriction treatment in Pune, consult Dr Tejas Tamhane, a trusted fetal medicine specialist dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for both mother and baby.
