Relationship between postterm pregnancy and fetal growth retardation

Abstract

Post term pregnancy is a common problem in obstetric practice especially in the less developed countries. The relationship between post term pregnancy and fetal development remains unresolved. The objective of this study was to assess the fetal outcomes related to post term pregnancy. This cross-sectional study was conducted at TUDU hospital in Hochiminh city, Vietnam during June 1992 to November 1992. The total of 494 gravidas were recruited to analyze, these include 250 cases of post term pregnancy and 244 cases of term pregnancy. It was found that there was no statistical difference of birth weight distribution between post term and term fetuses. The rate of Clifford Syndrome, meconium release into ammiotic fluid and intervention due to fetal distress in post term pregnancy were greater than in term pregnancy (OR = 1.88 p < 0.01, OR = 2.59 p < 0.001 and OR = 3.22 p < 0.001, respectively). The rate of small for date or fetal growth retardation was increased significantly when gestational age was beyond 43 weeks (OR 2.4 p < 0.05). The rate of placental dysfunction and birth asphyxia were also increased after 43 weeks of gestation (OR 2.28 p < 0.05 and OR 2.47 p < 0.05, respectively). We recommend to observe closely and to perform fetal tests and amnioscopy or amniocentesis in every cases at 42 weeks gestation or more.