How small is too small
How small is too small
Reasons for growth restriction
Fetal growth restriction refers to a condition in which an unborn baby is smaller than it should be because it is not growing at a normal rate inside the womb. If you and you partner are petite and even more if you have had small babies before, your baby will not be expected to be big. However, before being reassured by that, a fetal medicine specialist should explore other reasons for your baby not growing appropriately for the gestation.
There are several reasons why your baby may be measuring small for dates:
Placental insufficiency is the most common reason for growth restriction in the late third trimester. The management involves close monitoring of the blood flows and delivery may be planned earlier if there is evidence of an impaired blood flow or static growth. Delivered at the right time, these babies have a very good outcome!
Congenital infections such as CMV may be a reason for a rather early onset growth restriction before 32 weeks. You will be offered a blood test called TORCH screening to check for the presence of antibodies showing a recent or previous infection.
Genetic conditions such as Down syndrome should be excluded if the growth restriction is apparent as early as 20 weeks. An amniocentesis ( s. invasive testing post) may be offered to you.
Please try not to worry too much and await your appointment with a fetal medicine specialist.
