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Fetal growth retardation in relation to maternal smoking and weight gain in pregnancy

H C Miller, K Hassanein, P A Hensleigh

    American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    |May 1, 1976
    PubMed

    Insights

    Maternal smoking during pregnancy is linked to shorter infant length, while low maternal weight gain is associated with a low ponderal index in newborns. These factors significantly impact fetal growth more than others.

    Area of Science:

    • Obstetrics and Gynecology
    • Neonatal Health
    • Fetal Development Research

    Background:

    • Fetal growth retardation (FGR) presents distinct clinical patterns in term infants.
    • Understanding the etiological factors of FGR is crucial for improving neonatal outcomes.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To differentiate and identify key determinants of two distinct types of fetal growth retardation.
    • To investigate the influence of maternal lifestyle and physiological factors on specific FGR phenotypes.

    Main Methods:

    • Classification of FGR based on ponderal index and crown-heel length in term infants.
    • Analysis of maternal factors including smoking habits, weight gain, prepregnancy weight, parity, marital status, and fetal sex.

    Main Results:

    • Two types of FGR identified: low ponderal index and short crown-heel length.
    • Maternal cigarette smoking correlated with shorter infant length for gestational age.
    • Low maternal weight gain during pregnancy correlated with a low ponderal index in infants.

    Conclusions:

    • Maternal smoking and weight gain are significant predictors of specific FGR types.
    • These modifiable maternal factors have a greater impact on fetal growth than social or demographic variables.

    Keywords:
    AnthropometryBiologyBody WeightChild DevelopmentClinical ResearchEmbryoFetusGrowthPhysiologyPregnancyReproductionResearch Methodology

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