Understanding Dysmaturity:An Overview and Explanation of Intrauterine Growth Retardation

Dysmaturity is also known as Intrauterine Growth Retardation and characterizes a condition where a fetus grows slower than can normally be expected. This is often thought to be caused by a malfunction of the placenta. There are other causes, however, and risk factors contributing to Dysmaturity or IUGR. Although, his can be a difficult diagnosis to understand, there are ways to prevent this condition as well as standard practices for medical help and intervention when it has been diagnosed.

The healthy development of a fetus depends on the health of the mother and is dependent on everything staying healthy and functioning during the pregnancy. Dysmaturity can develop when a pregnant mother has health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease or HIV infection, or when she contracts an illness during the pregnancy such as toxoplasmosis, pre eclampsia or placentia previa. Smoking, drinking and drug use can also cause poor fetal development. Additionally, twins or other multiple gestation pregnancies are at risk for Dysmaturity.

There are no symptoms felt to the mother if Intrauterine Growth Retardation is an issue. The physician will notice that the uterus is not as large as it should be and there may be fewer fetal movements than could be expected. The physician will consider the size of the fetus in relation to its gestational age, and, potentially, the weight gain of the mother. An ultrasound and a nonstress test (to evaluate the fetal heart rate) will be conducted to determine conclusively whether the fetus is or is not developing at a normal rate.

The risks for a pregnancy and fetus that are not developing at the expected rate can be premature labor, increased instance of C-section birth, birth defects, an underweight baby who is at risk for medical issues and problems, asphyxiation during labor which can lead to cerebral palsy, and possible death of the infant. Additionally, there may be long term affects on the child including physical and learning disabilities.

Mothers who have experienced a pregnancy with Intrauterine Growth Retardation have an increased risk with future pregnancies.

For treatment, doctors will likely advise that all smoking, drinking, etc. be ceased, and that a nutritious diet be established and maintained. Physicians also will likely recommend increased bed rest and laying on the left side as much as possible to increase blood flow to the fetus. The pregnancy, mother and fetus will also be monitored closely throughout the pregnancy. In severe cases, mothers will be admitted to the hospital for constant monitoring and health care management.

During labor, the infant's heart rate will be monitored continuously and the medical staff will be prepared for a forceps or C-section delivery. The infant may also be given oxygen, antibiotics and/or need to spend time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit after birth.

Mothers can help to prevent Dysmaturity by trying to be as healthy as possible prior to becoming pregnant. If the mother has pre-existing health conditions, she should see a physician for care early. Good nutrition, ceasing smoking, drinking, and other drugs, and getting plenty of rest during pregnancy also help the fetus develop normally. If a pregnancy woman is suspicious of the lack or decrease in fetal movements, she should mention this to her physician.