Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and placental insufficiency: mechanisms and management

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) is a condition characterized by impaired fetal growth due to abnormal conditions in the womb, often linked to placental insufficiency.Placental insufficiency occurs when the placenta fails to supply adequate oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus, resulting in restricted growth.The mechanisms underlying placental insufficiency include impaired placental blood flow, abnormal placental development, and maternal conditions like hypertension and diabetes.IUGR is associated with increased risks of perinatal morbidity, mortality, and developmental complications.With timely interventions, Doppler ultrasound is critical in assessing fetal blood flow and identifying placental insufficiency.Management strategies for IUGR focus on optimizing maternal health, close fetal monitoring, and deciding the appropriate timing and method of delivery to minimize risks.Severe cases necessitate preterm delivery, supported by interventions such as steroid administration to enhance fetal lung maturity.A multidisciplinary approach is essential to improving outcomes for both mother and fetus in pregnancies complicated by IUGR and placental insufficiency.