Macrosomia

Definition:

Macrosomia refers to a condition in which a newborn is considerably larger than average for gestational age, often defined as birth weight above the 90th percentile for a specific period. It is primarily determined by prenatal and genetic factors, such as maternal diabetes or excessive maternal weight gain during pregnancy.

Causes:

Macrosomia can occur due to various factors, including:

• Maternal diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels during pregnancy can cause excessive fetal growth, leading to macrosomia.
• Maternal obesity: Women with a higher pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) have an increased risk of giving birth to a larger baby.
• Genetics: Family history of macrosomia or large babies may contribute to its occurrence.
• Prolonged pregnancy: Going beyond the normal duration of pregnancy can result in increased fetal growth.

Complications and Risks:

Macrosomia can pose several risks and complications, both for the baby and the mother, including:

• Birth injuries: Larger babies are more likely to experience birth traumas during delivery, such as shoulder dystocia, fractures, or nerve damage.
• Cesarean delivery: Due to the difficulties associated with delivering a macrosomic baby vaginally, a cesarean section may become necessary.
• Maternal complications: Women giving birth to a macrosomic baby may experience excessive bleeding, tears in the birth canal, or increased recovery time.
• Newborn complications: Macrosomic infants are at a higher risk of developing hypoglycemia, breathing difficulties, and obesity later in life.

Diagnosis and Management:

Macrosomia is typically diagnosed through ultrasound examinations estimating fetal weight close to delivery. To manage the condition, healthcare providers may suggest:

• Close monitoring of blood sugar levels in pregnant women with diabetes.
• Dietary modifications to control excessive maternal weight gain and prevent additional fetal growth.
• Inducing labor earlier than the due date to reduce the risk of complications during delivery.
• Considering a cesarean delivery in cases where vaginal delivery may pose significant risks.

In summary, macrosomia refers to the condition in which a newborn has a substantially higher birth weight than average. It can result from various factors, including maternal diabetes, obesity, genetics, or prolonged pregnancy. Macrosomia can lead to complications for both the baby and the mother, requiring careful monitoring and appropriate management during pregnancy and delivery.