The likelihood of having shoulder dystocia (the baby has difficulty passing the birth canal) during delivery is 1 in 13. The chances almost double if the baby is more than 5kgs or 11 pounds. Shoulder dystocia is a condition wherein the baby’s shoulders get stuck after their head is out. Severe cases need urgent medical intervention. You may require assistance and instruction by medical experts with respect to when to push, when to hold, and what position to adjust, in order to free the baby’s shoulders successfully.
If you are overdue, an induction may be performed. However, inducing may not always be helpful either. Mothers with diabetes should have an induction at week 38. Elective caesarean is also a good choice to prevent complications during childbirth.
Newborn and Childhood Risk in Fetal Macrosomia
Besides the complications during birth, there are other health complications associated with macrosomia, which your baby may face:
Low Blood Sugar Levels
If a baby is born with macrosomia, chances are that they will also be diagnosed with lower than normal blood sugar levels.
Obesity
Studies have shown that babies born with macrosomia are more prone to childhood obesity as their weight increases.
Metabolic Syndrome
If your baby was born with fetal macrosomia, they are at a greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome during their childhood.
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