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Breech presentation and fetal growth retardation
1Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-7400.
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Breech presentation is not a cause of fetal growth retardation, though it is linked to premature delivery. This association may explain increased perinatal mortality in breech infants.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Neonatal Research
Background:
- Breech presentation is a known risk factor for fetal growth retardation.
- The precise relationship between breech presentation and fetal growth retardation remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between breech presentation and fetal growth retardation.
- To clarify the role of breech presentation in fetal growth restriction.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of live births in North Carolina during 1988-1989.
- Comparison of birth weight and gestational age between breech and vertex presentations.
Main Results:
- A significant difference in birth weight between breech and vertex infants was observed only in preterm births.
- Breech infants showed a higher proportion of small for gestational age, but this difference diminished with increasing gestational age.
- Breech presentation is unlikely to be a direct cause of fetal growth retardation.
Conclusions:
- The association between breech presentation and fetal growth retardation is likely confounded by premature delivery.
- The increased perinatal mortality associated with breech presentation may be partly explained by its correlation with preterm birth and fetal growth retardation.