What is intrauterine growth retardation?
Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) is impaired fetal development that occurs in utero. Also known as intrauterine growth restriction, IUGR is a serious condition often triggered by the insufficient passage of nutrients from a mother to her unborn child. Suspected cases of intrauterine growth retardation may be closely monitored and necessitate premature delivery. The presence of intrauterine growth retardation may also result in intrauterine death. As a fetus develops, its progress is closely monitored to ensure its development is occurring normally. Established, developmental markers are utilized to track the fetus’ development in relation to its gestational age, which is calculated in weeks. The normal gestation period for infants from conception to delivery is between 38 and 42 weeks. Infants delivered prior to 37 weeks are considered to be premature and are closely monitored.
