Macrosomia

Macrosomia refers to a newborn who's significantly larger than average. A baby diagnosed with this condition has a birth weight of more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces (4,000 grams), regardless of his or her gestational age. About 9% of babies worldwide weigh more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces. However, the percentage of babies classified as macrosomic increases significantly among certain populations, such as people of Hispanic descent.

Causes

The most common cause of Macrosomia is diabetes in the mother. Other factors can also increase the risk, including:

• A previous history of macrosomia
• A prolonged pregnancy — one that goes beyond 40 weeks
• Obesity in the mother
• Excessive weight gain during pregnancy
• Being male

Complications

Macrosomia can lead to complications for both mother and baby. For the mother, these can include:

• Labor problems
• Delivery of a large baby can cause both vaginal and perineal lacerations
• Increased risk of Cesarean section
• Postpartum hemorrhage

For the baby, complications may include:

• Low blood sugar
• Childhood obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• High birth weight can also increase the risk of Stillbirth

Prevention

Prevention of macrosomia can be difficult, but there are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. These include:

• Controlling diabetes before and during pregnancy
• Maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy
• Regular prenatal checkups
• Monitoring baby's growth and development

Treatment

Treatment for macrosomia depends on the baby's size and the mother's health. If the baby is not too large, vaginal delivery may be possible. If the baby is very large, a cesarean section may be necessary.

Macrosomia Resources
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