IJCM₇7A: Predictors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth

Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as fetuses whose estimated fetal weight or abdominal circumference is below the 10th percentile for gestational age. As Africa and South Asia account for 60-85% of these births, it becomes important to study the predictive factors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth. Objective: To study the socio-demographic and obstetrics factors as predictive factors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth. Methodology: This was a case-control study. The sample size was 10 (four mothers with a preterm baby with fetal growth restriction and six mothers with a preterm baby without fetal growth restriction). Through a proforma the socio-demographic, obstetric, neonatal details, and ultrasound readings were collected. The results were summarized using mean and standard deviations. Results: The average gestational age was 32.5 weeks in cases and 32.7 weeks in controls. In this study, oligohydramnios (0.011) and history of abortion (0.011) were seen more in mothers with fgr in preterm birth compared to those in mothers with non-fgr in preterm birth babies. Conclusion: Oligohydramnios and history of abortion were the predictors of fetal growth restriction in preterm birth.