How to Recognize Fetal Growth Retardation

Fetal growth retardation is said to occur when the weight of a fetus is below the tenth percentile for its gestational age. Recognizing fetal growth retardation can be difficult, but there are some steps that you and your physician can use to determine if fetal growth retardation applies to your pregnancy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Speak to your doctor if you have any concerns about your weight gain (on the low end of normal), or if you feel you are "carrying small." These can be indicators of fetal growth retardation in some cases.
2. Allow your obstetrician to measure your fundal height (size of the uterus) with a tape measure at regular office visits. Between 18 and 30 weeks, the fundal height in centimeters should equal the week of gestation for the pregnancy. If the fundal height is repeatedly 2 to 3 centimeters below what is expected, ask the doctor if he suspects fetal growth retardation.
3. Agree to an ultrasound to help determine an estimated weight of the baby. It can also help see how the baby is developing and if certain features of the baby (such as legs or head) show retarded growth.
4. Have a biophysical profile (BPP) done by your doctor or other medical professional. The biophysical profile helps the doctor observe fetal body movements, fetal breathing movements, fetal tone and amniotic fluid volume. Checking amniotic fluid volume is important because if the volume of fluid is low, it can account for a smaller than expected fundal height, instead of fetal growth retardation.
5. Have a non-stress test performed. The non-stress test is used to observe changes in the heart rate of the fetus with fetal movement. This test is sometimes indicated when fetal growth retardation is suspected.

Tips & Warnings

• Fetal growth retardation is sometimes referred to as intrauterine growth retardation or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
• The information in this article is not meant as a substitute for regular medical care or medical advice from your physician. Contact your physician if you have any concerns about your pregnancy or your baby.