Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) is a serious pregnancy condition in which a baby does not grow at the expected rate inside the uterus. While every pregnancy is unique, foetal growth restriction can significantly increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, delivery, and even later in life.
Understanding IUGR causes is crucial for early detection, timely medical intervention, and improved pregnancy outcomes. According to obstetric experts, IUGR affects nearly 5–10% of pregnancies worldwide, including India, making it a key maternal-foetal health concern.
What Is IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction)?
IUGR, also called foetal growth restriction (FGR), occurs when a baby’s estimated weight is below the 10th percentile for its gestational age.
Types of IUGR
- Symmetrical IUGR: All body parts are proportionally small
- Asymmetrical IUGR: Head and brain are normal, but abdomen is smaller
Both forms require close monitoring by an obstetrician or foetal medicine specialist.
Primary Causes: What Leads to Restricted Foetal Growth?
IUGR causes can be broadly classified into maternal, placental, and foetal factors. Often, multiple causes coexist.
1. Maternal Causes of Impaired Foetal Growth
Maternal health plays a crucial role in foetal development. Any condition that reduces oxygen or nutrient supply to the baby can lead to restricted growth.
Common Maternal Impaired Foetal Growth Causes
- High blood pressure (gestational hypertension or preeclampsia)
- Chronic diabetes or poorly controlled blood sugar
- Severe anemia
- Malnutrition or poor weight gain during pregnancy
- Smoking, alcohol, or drug use
- Chronic kidney disease
- Autoimmune disorders (lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome)
How Maternal Health Affects Foetal Growth
Poor maternal circulation reduces blood flow to the placenta, limiting oxygen and nutrients required for foetal development.
2. Placental Causes of Impaired Foetal Growth
Placental dysfunction is one of the most common IUGR causes.
Placental Problems Leading to Impaired Foetal Growth
- Placental insufficiency
- Placenta previa
- Placental abruption
- Abnormal placental implantation
- Reduced uteroplacental blood flow
When the placenta cannot function efficiently, the baby adapts by slowing growth to survive.
3. Foetal Causes of IUGR
Sometimes, the issue originates with the baby itself.
Foetal Factors Causing Restricted Growth
- Chromosomal abnormalities (Down syndrome, Trisomy 18)
- Congenital birth defects
- Intrauterine infections (TORCH infections)
- Multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets)
- Genetic growth disorders
Foetal causes often result in symmetrical Impaired Foetal Growth especially when present early in pregnancy.
4. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors
External influences can significantly impact foetal growth.
Environmental Risk Factors
- Exposure to air pollution
- Living at high altitudes
- Occupational toxin exposure
- Poor prenatal care
These factors are particularly relevant in urban and industrial regions.
Early Signs and Symptoms of IUGR
IUGR often does not produce obvious symptoms. However, doctors may suspect it when:
- Fundal height is smaller than expected
- Reduced foetal movements
- Low maternal weight gain
- Abnormal Doppler ultrasound results
Early diagnosis is essential for preventing complications.
How Is Impaired Foetal Growth Diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of clinical and imaging tools:
Diagnostic Methods
- Ultrasound foetal biometry
- Doppler flow studies
- Amniotic fluid assessment
- Non-stress test (NST)
- Biophysical profile (BPP)
Regular monitoring helps determine the safest timing for delivery.
Potential Complications of Impaired Foetal Growth
If left unmanaged, restricted foetal growth may lead to:
- Preterm birth
- Low birth weight
- Foetal distress
- Stillbirth
- Developmental delays later in life
Timely medical intervention significantly reduces these risks.
Can Impaired Foetal Growth Be Prevented?
While not all cases are preventable, risk can be minimized.
Preventive Measures
- Regular antenatal check-ups
- Managing chronic conditions
- Balanced pregnancy nutrition
- Avoiding smoking and alcohol
- Monitoring high-risk pregnancies closely
When to Consult a Doctor
Immediate medical attention is required if:
- Foetal movements decrease
- Blood pressure rises suddenly
- Severe swelling or headaches occur
- Ultrasound shows growth lag
Early intervention can be life-saving.
FAQs: Restricted Foetal Growth
What is the most common cause of Impaired Foetal Growth ?
Placental insufficiency is the most common cause, often linked to maternal hypertension.
Can Impaired Foetal Growth babies be healthy?
Yes, with early diagnosis and proper management, many Impaired Foetal Growth babies grow normally after birth.
Does IUGR mean a C-section is necessary?
Not always. Delivery method depends on foetal condition, gestational age, and Doppler findings.
Is IUGR the same as low birth weight?
No. refers to restricted growth in the womb, while low birth weight is measured after birth.
Can nutrition alone fix Impaired Foetal Growth ?
Nutrition helps but cannot correct placental or genetic causes.
Conclusion:
IUGR is a complex condition with multiple underlying causes, ranging from maternal health issues to placental dysfunction and foetal factors. Awareness, early diagnosis, and expert medical care are key to improving outcomes for both mother and baby.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, prioritizing antenatal care and addressing risk factors early can make a significant difference. With modern obstetric monitoring and timely intervention, most pregnancies affected by Impaired Foetal Growth can still result in healthy deliveries.
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