The average weight of an Indian newborn is between 2.5 - 3Kg. Whereas some babies are born with weight less than 2.5kg. A newborn with a low birth weight can have many serious health problems. But what can cause low birth weight.! Let's see some reasons that result in babies being born with low birth weight:
Cause of Low Birth Weight: pregnancy:
Gestational age:
The period from conception to childbirth is known as gestation. During this period, the baby grows and develops in the womb. Gestational age determines the pregnancy duration as a combination of weeks and days.
It is important to know the day you conceived. Even if you don't remember, your gynecologist will determine by analysing the menstrual cycle. The age of gestation helps to estimate the probable date, guide obstetric care and testing, and evaluate the health of the baby. It also serves as a guide to determine if the baby is growing as expected and when the prenatal tests have to be conducted. Babies born smaller or larger than expected at their gestational age need to be monitored more closely.
Premature Birth:
Most of the time, low birth weight is caused when a baby is born too early than the gestational period. A premature baby born before 37 weeks spends less time in the womb to grow and gain weight. Studies show that low birth weight may increase the risk of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems, in the future.
Fetal growth restriction:
A condition where the fetus cannot attain the genetically determined size. Babies born with fetal growth restriction are estimated to weigh less than the 10th percentile. Fetal growth restriction can occur either in the beginning of the pregnancy weeks or later in the pregnancy period and with fetal growth restrictions, the baby does not grow well; it affects the size of the baby and growth of organs, tissues, and cells, causing many health problems.
Placental Causes for IUGR:
IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction) can result from suboptimal supply of nutrition to the fetus. It usually happens when there is a problem with placenta, the tissue that supplies nutrients and oxygen to the baby or when there is problem with the flow of blood in the umbilical cord that connects the baby with the placenta resulting in premature birth or stillbirth.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction can be caused if the pregnant woman has an infection, has a medical condition like anemia, clotting problems, high blood pressure, thyroid disease and other chronic diseases.
Infections
Unknown infections or infections such as chickenpox, toxoplasmosis, and sexually transmitted infections (STDs) can lead to low birth weight.
Other factors that contribute to lower birth weight are as follows:
Chronic health conditions:
Chronic health conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems, or heart problems last for a long time and they recur from time to time. As time passes, it can get worse and you will need extended treatment.
Regular medications:
A soon-to-be mom must contact a health professional if they are on regular medications to treat health problems such as persistent cough, epilepsy, heart problems, or high blood pressure (hypertension).
One of the best ways to prevent low birth weight is to prevent preterm births. Prenatal care is a critical factor in preventing preterm births and low birthweight babies. You may also read - Soon-to-be mom.! Tips for Healthy Pregnancy
During prenatal care, the health of both mother and infant is monitored. Maternal nutrition and mothers' weight gain are linked with fetal weight gain and birth weight. Eating healthy meals on time during pregnancy is essential. Avoid alcohol, smoking that can cause poor fetal growth, among other complications. Check Foods to avoid during pregnancy.
If you have any queries or concerns related to your health, visit Kangaroo Care - Women & Children Hospital, the best pregnancy care hospital in Bangalore and Mysore. Book an Online Appointment Today!
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