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foetal growth restriction‘Intrauterine growth retardation’ refers to a foetus that does not grow as fast as it should while in the uterus (womb). Note retardation refers to the growth and size of the baby – not the development or function of the baby’s brain. An affected baby has higher risk of serious problems, including death. This problem occurs in almost half of multiple births, compared with a little more than 10% of single-baby births. Twins often grow more slowly than a single-birth baby from the 32nd week onwards. Twins also have a lower birth weight than a single baby, although earlier birth contributes to this as well as slower growth. But the less a baby weighs at birth, the greater the chance of health problems. Compared with single baby or twin pregnancies, multiple births have a greater chance of a low birth weight and the chances of disabilities are doubled. These disabilities vary from neurological problems to problems that are not compatible with life. what can the woman do?There is little that an affected woman can do except closely follow the instructions of her gynaecologist. If it seems that one or both children are growing too slowly during the pregnancy, the gynaecologist may first prescribe rest. If no rapid improvement occurs, the gynaecologist will possibly decide to admit the woman to hospital, so that the progress of the babies can be better monitored. If examinations show that the condition of one or both babies is deteriorating, the decision as to what happens at that point will largely depend on the duration of the pregnancy. In the case of a 33 – 34-week pregnancy, there is a good chance that the babies will be delivered. If the pregnancy is less advanced, the risks of premature birth are greater for the children and a difficult balance will have to be struck between the two risks. The paediatrician will be consulted concerning what is the best way to proceed and what health risks are to be expected. If necessary, measures will be taken to accelerate the development of the babies’ lungs. |
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