How to Prevent Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a state where the growth and weight of an unborn child is lower than the normal rate expected within a certain stage of gestation. A fetus experiencing this condition usually weighs less than 90% compared to normal fetuses of the same gestational age. They are more likely to experience health problems during weeks of being inside the womb, and even after birth. When they are born, they appear thin with pale, dry skin and are characterized as small for gestation age (SGA). Women with poor nutrition, who are into smoking and substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) during pregnancy, are making their babies susceptible to intrauterine or fetal growth restriction. Other factors that may cause IUGR include pregnant mothers with high blood pressure, stress, kidney and heart disease, maternal anemia, reduced blood flow around the uterus and placenta, and diabetes. Multiple gestation (twins or triplets) and chromosomal abnormalities may also predispose fetal growth restriction.

Instructions

• 1

  Do your prenatal checkups regularly. Your visit to the doctor plays a vital role when it comes to taking good care of your unborn child. It will help update the baby’s growth and development. And if there are problems present, early management can be of great help in preventing further complications.

• 2

  Ask your doctor for some helpful advice on how to keep your baby healthy throughout the period of gestation, and make sure to follow every single instruction given to you.

• 3

  Observe the movement of your baby constantly. Monitoring the baby’s kicks and movements in your womb is important in detecting your baby’s normal development. Fetal movements usually take place within 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. If your baby moves a lot, this is usually an indication that he/she is healthy. But if your baby rarely moves or does not move at all, contact your doctor right away -- this may indicate an existing problem that needs to be managed immediately.

• 4

  Take good care of your body by eating healthy. Fetal weight gain and growth largely depends on the mothers’ nutritional status. Eat right by consuming healthy foods and following the recommended amount of calories needed for pregnant women.

• 5

  Get plenty of bed rest. Pregnant women should try to have 8 hours of sleep every night, along with an hour or two of naps every afternoon. Resting a lot is beneficial in improving fetal circulation and helps in promoting healthy growth and development.

• 6

  Try to relax and watch your blood pressure. Avoid doing strenuous activities while you’re pregnant. Keep yourself stress-free to maintain a healthy blood pressure and overall health -- your baby’s health will benefit much out of it.

• 7

  Avoid drinking alcohol, smoking and taking drugs during pregnancy. All of these are considered high risks of halting the normal growth and development of your unborn child. Try to improve your lifestyle for the sake of your baby’s health.

• 8

  Exercise your way to having a healthy baby. Low-impact aerobic exercises such as swimming, stationary bicycling and walking, incorporated with rhythmic breathing, are beneficial for pregnant women. This will help improve circulation and can help ease discomfort during pregnancy. Before planning an exercise program, make sure to check with the doctor first. Your doctor will help you decide appropriate exercises that will be best for you and your baby.