What should you know about IUGR types?

A scan may show a baby that is proportionately small, or a baby whose abdomen is smaller compared with the head. The report may use estimated weight, abdominal measurement, Doppler blood flow and amniotic fluid to describe concern. These patterns can overlap, and they are not a prediction of a baby's future health. Your maternity team may also review blood pressure, medical history, placental findings and the timing of the change.

Ask which pattern the team sees and what evidence supports it. Attend repeat scans so clinicians can assess trajectory rather than one isolated measurement. Follow instructions for movement awareness and any home checks. A [Growth Scan](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/growth-scan/) can compare measurements, while [Fetal Heart Monitoring](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/fetal-heart-monitoring/) can assess wellbeing at a particular visit.

Seek prompt maternity advice if fetal movements reduce or change, or if you develop bleeding, fluid leakage, regular contractions or severe abdominal pain. Severe headache, visual symptoms or feeling suddenly unwell also warrant urgent assessment. The type of growth restriction does not make these warning signs safe to watch at home.

Ask whether the finding is early or later in pregnancy, whether growth is proportionate, and whether blood flow or fluid is affected. Ask what will be repeated, which result would change the schedule, and how birth might be planned. You can ask whether [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/) is relevant and what alternatives would be considered.