What does it mean to be small for gestational age?Small for gestational age is a term used to describe babies who are smaller than number for the number of weeks of pregnancy. These babies have birth weight below the 10th percentile. This means they are smaller than many other babies of the same gestational age. Many babies normally weigh more than 5 pounds, 13 ounces by the 37th week of pregnancy. Babies born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces are considered low birth weight. Show
What causes babies to be small for gestational age?Some babies are small because their parents are small. But most babies who are small for gestational age have growth problems that happen during pregnancy. Many of these babies have a condition called intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This happens when the unborn baby doesn’t get the nutrients and oxygen needed to grow and develop organs and tissues. This can begin at any time in pregnancy. Growth restriction early in pregnancy (early onset) happens because of chromosome problems in the baby. It also happens because of disease in the mother, or severe problems with the placenta. Growth restriction is called late onset if it happens after week 32 of the pregnancy. It is often linked to other problems. Who is at risk for being small for gestational age?When the unborn baby doesn’t get enough oxygen or nutrients during pregnancy, the baby’s body and organs don't grow as much as they should. Some of the problems that cause babies to be small for gestational age limit how much blood flows through the placenta. This can cause the baby to get less oxygen than normal. This increases the baby’s risks during pregnancy and delivery, and later. Things that can cause babies to be small for gestational age are listed below. Problems with the mother
Problems with the uterus and placenta
Problems with the developing baby
What are the symptoms of small for gestational age babies?Small for gestational age babies may look mature, but they are smaller than other babies of the same gestational age. They may be small all over. Or they may be of normal length and size but have lower weight and body mass. These babies may be born:
Many small for gestational age babies have low birth weight. But not all are premature. They may not have the same problems as premature babies. Other babies, especially those with intrauterine growth restriction, may look thin and pale, and have loose, dry skin. The umbilical cord is often thin and dull-looking rather than shiny and fat. How are small for gestational age babies diagnosed?Babies with this problem are often diagnosed with IUGR before birth. During pregnancy, a baby’s size can be guessed in different ways. The height of the top of a mother’s uterus can be measured from the pubic bone. This measurement in centimeters often links with the number of weeks of pregnancy after the 20th week. If the measurement is low for the number of weeks, then the baby may be smaller than expected. Other tests used for diagnosis may include:
How are small for gestational age babies treated?Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. Babies with this problem may be physically more mature than their small size would suggest. But they may be weak and less able to take large feedings or stay warm. Treatment may include:
Babies who are also premature may have other needs. They may need oxygen and a breathing machine (ventilator). What are possible complications of being small for gestational age?Babies who are small for gestational age or who have IUGR may have problems at birth. These can include:
Can small size for gestational age be prevented?Prenatal care is important in all pregnancies. It is especially helpful to see any problems with the baby’s growth. For a healthy pregnancy, stop smoking if you smoke, and don't use drugs or alcohol while you are pregnant. Eating a healthy diet during pregnancy may also help. Key points about small for gestational age babies
Next stepsTips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:
What if baby is small for gestational age?Infants born with fetal growth restriction small for gestational age (FGR SGA) are at increased risk of short- and long-term complications and death. Conditions such as maternal hypertension, kidney disease, infections, malnutrition, smoking, and substance abuse increase the risk of having an FGR SGA infant.
When assessing a newborn who is considered to be large for gestational age which characteristics could the nurse expect to find?Feedback: LGA newborns typically are more difficult to arouse to a quiet alert state. They have poor motor skills, have a large body that appears plump and full-sized, and usually weigh more than 8 lb 13 oz at term. An LGA newborn has a blood glucose level of 30 mg/dL and is exhibiting symptoms of hypoglycemia.
How would the nurse classify the gestational age of an infant born at 35 weeks quizlet?How does the nurse classify the gestational age of an infant born at 35 weeks? An infant born at 35 weeks of gestation can be classified as late preterm. Late preterm refers to a gestational age of 34 0⁄7 through 36 6⁄7 weeks of gestation. Full term refers to a gestational age of 39 0⁄7 through 40 6⁄7 weeks.
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