Fetal Macrosomia
Fetal macrosomia, or “big baby syndrome” describes a situation where a baby is more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces before birth. A fetus this large may not be safe to deliver vaginally. Doctors must take care to perform a C-section delivery rather than risk serious and permanent injury to the infant.
Signs of Macrosomia
Clear signs of macrosomia are observable in many patients well before delivery. An abnormally large fundal height measurement or signs of glucose in the urine can point to an abnormally large fetus or the potential for abnormally large fetus due to gestational diabetes. Doctors are expected to monitor expectant mothers for signs of macrosomia so that alternate plans for c-section can be made when necessary.
Macrosomia is present in over 10% of all U.S. pregnancies. If Cesarean delivery is not considered for these infants, there is at greater risk damage to the birth canal and damage to the fetus during the birth.
Babies born with macrosomia are also susceptible to low blood sugar problems, respiratory distress and jaundice. They are also at greater risk for birth defects. All of these factors must be addressed after the birth.
Preventing Big Baby Syndrome
Appropriate prenatal care will often spot a case of big baby syndrome. For pregnant women with diabetes, precise control of blood sugar during pregnancy may help prevent macrosomia. When it cannot be prevented, early diagnosis will help prevent the complications that can result during birth.
While Macrosomia is not always preventable or detectable during pregnancy, caregivers must remain vigilant for the sake of the mother and infant. Once it becomes clear that a fetus is under stress while trying to deliver vaginally, doctors must consider the potential for big baby syndrome and consider c-section delivery.
Contact Us
If you suspect your child’s birth injury was the result of negligent medical treatment or failure to detect macrosomia in the infant, contact our experienced attorneys. We will review your case at no costs and help you understand the potential causes of injury and your legal rights to compensation.
