Last Updated on February 9, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Researchers state that intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is observed in about 24% of newborns. In Asia, IUGR accounts for nearly 75% of all affected infants. This article summarizes IGR, if it can cause gestational diabetes and if yes, how.
What is IUGR?
IUGR stands for Intrauterine Growth Restriction. This is a condition in which a fetus is smaller than it should be due to poor growth during pregnancy. It is a major and silent cause of various morbidity and mortality for the fetal and neonatal populations. IUGR can be caused by various factors such as placental problems, like placental insufficiency, preeclampsia, chromosomal abnormalities, etc. It can also result due to maternal factors, such as high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, respiratory diseases, etc. IUGR can cause health problems for the baby after birth. Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate fetal growth and address any potential causes during pregnancy.
Can gestational diabetes cause IUGR?
Yes, gestational diabetes can increase the risk of Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) in a developing fetus. Research states that intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a well-known complication of pre-gestational diabetic patients due to vasculopathy (a disease affecting the blood vessels) and is also seen in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) due to high insulin levels. High blood sugar levels in the mother can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients that are available to the fetus, leading to slower growth and development.
How does gestational diabetes lead to IUGR?
Gestational diabetes can lead to Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) in several ways:
- High blood sugar levels in the mother can cross the placenta and expose the fetus to high levels of glucose. This can lead to an overproduction of insulin by the fetal pancreas. The babies born to women who are diabetic are born either too small (fetal growth restriction (FGR)) or too large (macrosomia). Both of these increase the risk of stillbirths.
- The high glucose levels can also reduce the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and limit its growth.
- Chronic high blood sugar levels in the mother can also damage blood vessels in the placenta. This will result in the lowering of the efficiency of nutrient and oxygen transfer to the fetus.
If not well managed, gestational diabetes can also increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. Close monitoring of fetal growth and appropriate management of gestational diabetes is important to minimise the risk of IUGR and ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
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