Intrauterine Growth Retardation
Alternate Names : Low Birth Weight, Small for Gestational Age, Dysmaturity, Intrauterine Growth Restriction
What are the treatments for the disease?
Treatment of IUGR depends on the suspected cause and may include the following:
stopping smoking
stopping all drugs, such as cocaine and
alcohol
eating a good diet with proper amounts of
folic acid and other vitamins
increasing bed rest, lying on the left side as much as possible
if prescribed, taking low-dose aspirin to prevent tiny clots from
forming in the placenta
monitoring fetal movements, contractions, or spontaneous rupture of
membranes
close monitoring by the healthcare provider
using continuous internal fetal heart
monitoring during labor to detect fetal distress
using minimal anesthesia, although
epidurals are safe
having a C-section or forceps
delivery if fetal distress is detected
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Treatments are intended to prevent serious complications in infants with IUGR.
Side effects of surgery include bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to
anesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Recovery from surgery may take a few days to several weeks, depending on the
procedure used. The baby may be given
oxygen, antibiotics, and
intravenous fluids after delivery. An infant with cerebral palsy or
seizures may need physical
therapy. Other disabilities may require other treatments.
How is the disease monitored?
The following may be used to monitor the pregnancy:
nonstress testing every week or
two
biophysical profile every week
or two. This test uses ultrasound and a series of measurements to determine
the health status of the developing fetus.
pregnancy ultrasounds every 10 to
14 days
Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.
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