Kulsum International Hospital

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Signs
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

Babies with growth restriction need close monitoring during pregnancy. With careful planning of delivery and newborn care, most do well.

Signs

  • The bump measures smaller than expected
  • Ultrasound shows a small baby
  • Reduced fetal movements in some cases

Causes and risk factors

Causes include problems with the placenta, high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia, smoking, poor nutrition, infections, multiple pregnancy and genetic conditions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis uses ultrasound to measure the baby's growth and Doppler studies to check blood flow.

Treatment

Treatment includes close monitoring of the baby, managing the mother's health and planning the timing of delivery. Some babies need care in a neonatal unit.

When to see a doctor

Attend all antenatal appointments. Contact your doctor promptly if your baby is moving less than usual.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR).