How to Manage Restricted Growth in a Fetus

A fetus that is smaller than the 10th percentile for its developmental stage is experiencing restricted growth---this serious medical condition is diagnosed through prenatal ultrasounds. Restricted fetal growth can lead to a lack of oxygen, lung problems, low blood sugar, motor and neurological disabilities and possible death for the baby. Management of this condition is vital to the health of both the mother and the baby.

Instructions

How to manage restricted growth in a fetus.

• 1

  Avoid smoking, drinking and drug usage during pregnancy. These habits decrease the amount of oxygen available for the baby and impairs its growth.

• 2

  Eat a nutritious diet and take prenatal supplements recommended by your doctor. Good nutrition promotes fetal growth and and controls maternal hypertension and diabetes. Discuss high nutrition foods with your doctor and establish a healthy diet during pregnancy.

• 3

  Consult frequently with your doctor regarding medical conditions. Monitor existing medical problems, as well as those acquired during pregnancy. Heart disease, gestational diabetes, autoimmune disease, placenta previa, low weight, preeclampsia or eclampsia cause restricted fetal development. Rubella, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis and syphilis infections pose significant harm to the fetus during the first trimester.

• 4

  Closely monitor your pregnancy with your medical team. Ultrasounds and medical tests follow fetal development before delivery, and also help diagnose chromosomal deformities, uterine malformations and low amniotic fluid levels. If you are at high risk for a premature delivery, you will be admitted to the hospital, and be given steroid injections to mature the baby's lungs. Fluids can also be administered through the amniotic sac, if necessary. The medical team will focus on preventing further complications, and continuing the pregnancy until the baby's lungs are more developed.