What should you know about fetal growth restriction?

Fetal growth restriction, also called IUGR, is identified from ultrasound measurements and the pattern of growth over time. A baby can be constitutionally small without being unwell, while restricted growth can reflect placental function or other pregnancy factors. Size alone does not explain the cause.

Assessment may include a growth scan, Doppler blood-flow measurements, amniotic fluid review, fetal movement history, and fetal heart monitoring. The care team combines these findings with your blood pressure, symptoms, pregnancy dates, and medical history.

Attend every recommended scan and monitoring appointment, take prescribed medicines, and tell the team about headaches, visual changes, upper abdominal pain, swelling that comes on suddenly, or reduced fetal movement. Keep a clear record of the next review date and the number to call between visits.

The plan may involve closer surveillance, treatment of a maternal condition, or planning birth when remaining in the uterus appears less safe than delivery. Timing depends on growth, blood flow, fetal heart findings, gestational age, and your overall health.

Contact your maternity unit urgently if your baby’s movements are reduced or changed, or if you have vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, painful contractions, severe headache, visual disturbance, or severe abdominal pain. Seek emergency help for collapse, severe breathing difficulty, or heavy bleeding.

Ask whether the findings suggest a small but healthy baby or restricted growth, how the placenta and blood flow look, and when the next scan or heart monitoring is due. Ask what would change the plan and whether induction of labour or another birth option may be recommended.