Screening for fetal growth restriction

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jun;49(2):284-94. doi: 10.1097/00003081-200606000-00010.

Abstract

Since antenatal detection of fetal growth restriction, defined as birth weight <10% for gestational age, can reduce perinatal morbidity with antepartum testing and use of Doppler, it is imperative that there be a greater effort to detect the growth abnormality. According to a well-conducted randomized clinical trial, all uncomplicated pregnancies should have sonographic assessment of birth weight at 30-32 weeks and at 36-37 weeks. An increased awareness not only of the risk factors but also of the associated probability of abnormal growth can identify the cohorts that would benefit from uterine artery Doppler in 2nd trimester. Among patients at risk for suboptimal growth, Doppler of the umbilical artery improves the detection rate.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Birth Weight*
  • Female
  • Fetal Growth Retardation / diagnosis*
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infant, Small for Gestational Age*
  • Male
  • Mass Screening / methods*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Third
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Risk Factors
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal / methods
  • Umbilical Arteries / diagnostic imaging