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Lifelong cognitive and motor outcomes after being born small for gestational age or with fetal growth restriction

Gemma Chavarria Ventura1, Harrigan Ryan1, Hai-Nian Yu1

  • 1UQCCR, Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4029, Australia.

World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics
|June 1, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Children born with fetal growth restriction (FGR) or small for gestational age (SGA) have higher risks of cognitive and motor impairments. Long-term effects and specific outcomes require further research with standardized methods.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small for gestational age (SGA) are associated with increased risks of neurodevelopmental issues.
  • Variability in study definitions and methods complicates understanding of these risks.
  • Recent technological and clinical advances have spurred research into fetal growth and neurodevelopment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To synthesize recent findings on the impact of SGA and FGR on neurodevelopment in preterm and term infants.
  • To examine cognitive, motor, sensory, and behavioral outcomes across the lifespan.
  • To identify gaps and future research needs in this field.

Main Methods:

  • A mini-review of original studies published between 2020 and 2025.
  • Screening of three databases to identify relevant research.
  • Selection criteria applied to identify 40 studies meeting the review's scope.

Main Results:

  • Children born SGA or with FGR show a higher risk of cognitive impairments, potentially persisting into adulthood.
  • Motor function evaluations consistently indicate higher prevalence, especially in term-born cohorts, though cerebral palsy risks are inconsistent.
  • Data on sensory and behavioral outcomes are limited and heterogeneous, with some preterm cohorts showing no significant associations.

Conclusions:

  • Children born with FGR or SGA face elevated risks for neurodevelopmental challenges, particularly cognitive and motor impairments.
  • Further research with refined definitions and standardized assessments is crucial for understanding developmental trajectories.
  • Longitudinal studies are needed to guide early interventions for infants experiencing growth complications.

Keywords:
Cerebral palsyFetal growth restrictionNeurodevelopmental impairmentsPreterm birthSmall for gestational age

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