Induction of labor for a suspected large-for-gestational-age/macrosomic fetus.

Abstract

Fetal macrosomia is defined as a birth weight of >4000 g, while the term large for gestational age (LGA) is defined as an estimated fetal weight >90th centile for gestational age. Current data indicate that a significant proportion of the babies are LGA. Pregnancies involving LGA babies are associated with increased maternal and perinatal morbidity including caesarean section, postpartum hemorrhage, shoulder dystocia, and birth trauma. To reduce these complications, labor induction has been suggested as a possible solution. However, despite some high-quality evidence in favor of labor induction for suspected macrosomia/LGA, existing guidelines do not support routine induction of labor in this population. The aim of this paper is to critically appraise the available evidence and clinical practice recommendations and highlight the importance of shared decision making and individualized care based on clear counselling regarding the lack of a sensitive diagnostic tool for estimating fetal weight in the third trimester.

• Authors: Nirmala Chandrasekaran
• Journal: Best practice & research. Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology (Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol) Vol. 77 Pg. 110-118 (Nov 2021) ISSN: 1532-1932 [Electronic] Netherlands
• PMID: 34602354 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Topics

• Cesarean Section
• Female
• Fetal Macrosomia
• Fetus
• Gestational Age
• Humans
• Labor, Induced
• Pregnancy