How is intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) managed?
Management of IUGR depends on the severity of growth restriction, and how early the problem began in the pregnancy. Generally, the earlier and more severe the growth restriction, the greater the risks to the fetus. Careful monitoring of a fetus with IUGR and ongoing testing may be needed. Some of the ways to watch for potential problems include the following: Fetal movement counting – keeping track of fetal kicks and movements. A change in the number or frequency may mean the fetus is under stress. Nonstress testing – a test that watches the fetal heart rate for increases with fetal movements, a sign of fetal well-being. Biophysical profile – a test that combines the nonstress test with an ultrasound to evaluate fetal well-being. Ultrasound – a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various ves
