What Are the Possible Findings in Fetal Biometry?
The above measurements help the doctors determine the gestational age. They also use these figures to have the estimated fetal weight.
After knowing the estimated fetal weight, the doctors can then plot it against the gestational age. From there, they’ll be able to tell if the baby’s present size is small for gestational age (SGA) or large for gestational age (LGA).
If the biometry comes back with significant findings (SGA, LGA, etc.), the healthcare provider may recommend further testing to identify the best management options, even before the baby is born.
For instance, a baby who’s SGA may be experiencing placental insufficiency. Fetal growth restriction may also occur due to maternal infection or bad habits, such as smoking or drinking alcohol. On the other hand, LGA is common in babies whose mothers have gestational diabetes.
Let’s also not forget that each measurement in fetal biometry stands for something. Case in point: abdominal circumference is the most useful measurement to assess fetal growth. On the other hand, femur length is the best parameter to evaluate certain bone abnormalities, like skeletal dysplasia.³
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