Fetal growth in diabetic pregnancy

Abstract

In summary, fetal macrosomia occurs in almost one third of diabetic pregnancies regardless of class. Abnormal fetal fat stores lead to difficult labor, dystocia, and birth injury as well as postnatal metabolic transition. The abnormal body fat distribution at birth may destine some of these infants to lifelong obesity. Abnormal fetal growth in diabetic pregnancy appears to occur with any elevations in maternal glucose levels, however modest. Detection of macrosomia is therefore a major goal of diabetic pregnancy management.