Fetal Growth Flashcards
What is Fatal Growth
Increase in mass that occurs between the end of embryonic period and birth
What is symphysis Fundal Height (SFH)
distance over the abdominal wall from the symphysis to the top of the uterus
What are the pros and cons of using symphysis fundal height (SFH)
Pros= Simple, inexpensive.
Cons=
Low detection rate: 50-86%, Great inter-operator variability
Influenced by a number of factors (BMI, fetal lie, amniotic fluid, fibroids)
What may cause a symphysis fundal height that is smaller than normal
wrong dates
small for gestational age
oligohydramnios
transverse lie
What may cause a symphysis fundal height that is larger than normal
wrong dates molar pregnancy multiple gestation large for gestational age Polyhydramnios Maternal obesity Fibroids
Why is ultrasound the preferred imaging choice for felt growth assessment
Assessment of fetal “wellness” not just size
Looking at trends in growth
Predicting fetal metabolic compromise
Anticipating the need to deliver prematurely
What are the 4 biometrical parameters assessed in ultrasounds for foetal growth
Crown Rump Length (CRL)
Head Circumference (HC)
Bi parietal diameter (BPD)
Abdominal circumference (AC)
How are babies dated and what is the exception to this
Crown Rump Length (except IVF)
When is head circumference used for dating
HC is used if first scan is done after 14 weeks (CRL>84mm)
Describe the normal growth curves
Normal growth curves constructed from ultrasound measurements are expressed in centiles
They are used clinically to identify a normal intrauterine growth and detect risk of obstetric and neonatal complications
Which factors influence foetal growth maternally
Poverty Age Drug use Weight Disease (hypertension, diabetes, coagulopathy) Smoking and nicotine Alcohol Diet Prenatal depression
Which factors influence foetal growth foeti-placentally
Genotype - genetic potential
Gender (B>G)
Hormones
Previous pregnancy
