Journal article

Publication year: 2001

Pages: 784-78+

Journal: Der Gynäkologe

Volume number: 34

Issue number: 9

ISSN: 0017-5994

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1007/s001290101066

Publisher: Springer

Abstract: 

The duration of pregnancy and growth of the fetus are closely related. The variance in fetal weight is determined by genetic factors as well as maternal and fetal illness during pregnancy.

Fetal growth is defined as retarded when it lies under the loth percentile. Below this limit, the mortality of the fetus is increased 2-3 times both during pregnancy and during the neonatal period. Symmetrical growth retardation is caused by chromosomal abnormalities and infections in the early phase of pregnancy while asymmetrical retardation is caused by factors effecting the later phase of pregnancy. There are significant relationships between retarded growth and socio-economic factors, genetic influences and illnesses during pregnancy. A low growth rate in utero represents a danger to the fetus and makes directed intervention necessary.

Harvard Citation style: Künzel, W. and Misselwitz, B. (2001) Epidemiology of retarded fetal growth, Der Gynäkologe, 34(9), pp. 784-78+. https://doi.org/10.1007/s001290101066

APA Citation style: Künzel, W., & Misselwitz, B. (2001). Epidemiology of retarded fetal growth. Der Gynäkologe. 34(9), 784-78+. https://doi.org/10.1007/s001290101066