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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Low Birth Weight - Intrauterine Growth Retardation

Treatment & Monitoring

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment of IUGR depends on the suspected cause and may include the following:

stopping smoking

stopping all drugs, such as cocaine and alcohol

eating a good diet with proper amounts of folic acid and other vitamins

increasing bed rest, lying on the left side as much as possible

if prescribed, taking low-dose aspirin to prevent tiny clots from forming in the placenta

monitoring fetal movements, contractions, or spontaneous rupture of membranes

close monitoring by the healthcare provider

using continuous internal fetal heart monitoring during labor to detect fetal distress

using minimal anesthesia, although epidurals are safe

having a C-section or forceps delivery if fetal distress is detected

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Treatments are intended to prevent serious complications in infants with IUGR. Side effects of surgery include bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Recovery from surgery may take a few days to several weeks, depending on the procedure used. The baby may be given oxygen, antibiotics, and intravenous fluids after delivery. An infant with cerebral palsy or seizures may need physical therapy. Other disabilities may require other treatments.

How is the disease monitored?

The following may be used to monitor the pregnancy:

nonstress testing every week or two

biophysical profile every week or two. This test uses ultrasound and a series of measurements to determine the health status of the developing fetus.

pregnancy ultrasounds every 10 to 14 days

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

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