Can Poor Placental Function Cause Low Fetal Weight in Pregnancy?

Q: Can Poor Placental Function Cause Low Fetal Weight in Pregnancy?

Hello： If a pregnant woman is gaining weight but it doesn't seem to be reflected in the fetus, it may indicate placental insufficiency, which requires special attention. <br>However, it is still advisable to consult with a common obstetrician for further advice. <br>Stay healthy.

Is it possible that a fetus being underweight on ultrasound is due to poor placental function?

Hello Doctor: I am currently 33 weeks pregnant, but since 28 weeks, during each ultrasound check-up, the baby's head circumference and abdominal circumference have been measuring more than two weeks behind (twice), while the femur length has been ahead by two and five weeks (twice).
Is the baby's weight estimated based on head circumference and abdominal circumference (which were within the normal range before 28 weeks)? Does placental function weaken as the gestational age increases? (Husband: 170 cm, 85 kg; Wife: 154 cm, currently 72 kg, was 58 kg before pregnancy) At 28 weeks, the baby weighed 1170 g, at 31 weeks 1388 g, and at 33 weeks 1497 g.
The mother's weight has been increasing, but it seems not to be reflected in the baby's growth; how can this be improved?

Emily, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/20

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: If a pregnant woman is gaining weight but it doesn't seem to be reflected in the fetus, it may indicate placental insufficiency, which requires special attention.
However, it is still advisable to consult with a common obstetrician for further advice.
Stay healthy.

Reply Date: 2015/07/20

More Info

Poor placental function can indeed lead to low fetal weight during pregnancy. The placenta plays a crucial role in fetal development by providing oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products. When placental function is compromised, it can result in inadequate nutrient and oxygen supply to the fetus, which may lead to intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). This condition is characterized by a fetus that is smaller than expected for its gestational age, which can be reflected in measurements such as head circumference and abdominal circumference.

In your case, it appears that the ultrasound measurements of your baby's head and abdominal circumference are lagging behind the expected growth for the gestational age, while the femur length is ahead. This discrepancy can indicate that the fetus is not receiving adequate nutrition, which is often associated with poor placental function. The fact that your weight gain has not translated into increased fetal weight raises concerns about the efficiency of nutrient transfer from you to your baby.

Several factors can contribute to poor placental function, including maternal health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or placental abnormalities. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as smoking, drug use, or poor nutrition can also negatively impact placental health. In your case, it is essential to assess whether there are any underlying health issues that could be affecting placental function.

Regarding your question about whether placental function diminishes as the pregnancy progresses, it is generally expected that placental efficiency should remain stable or even improve as the pregnancy advances. However, if there are complications such as placental insufficiency or other issues, the function can decline, leading to inadequate fetal growth.

To improve the situation, it is crucial to focus on optimizing maternal health. Here are some recommendations:
1. Nutrition: Ensure you are consuming a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. This includes adequate protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Consider consulting a nutritionist specializing in prenatal care to tailor a diet plan that meets your needs.

2. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining good blood flow and nutrient delivery to the placenta.

3. Regular Monitoring: Continue to have regular prenatal check-ups and ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth and placental function. Your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as Doppler studies, to assess blood flow to the fetus.

4. Manage Stress: High levels of stress can negatively impact pregnancy. Engage in relaxation techniques such as prenatal yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises.

5. Avoid Harmful Substances: Eliminate smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs, as these can severely impact fetal growth and placental function.

6. Consult Specialists: If there are ongoing concerns about fetal growth, your healthcare provider may refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist for further evaluation and management.

In summary, poor placental function can indeed lead to low fetal weight, and it is essential to address any potential issues proactively. By focusing on maternal health and working closely with your healthcare team, you can help improve the chances of healthy fetal growth as you approach the later stages of your pregnancy.

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