What are the risks for the baby if my wife delivers at 37 weeks?
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.
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Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
My wife aged 23 years have autoantibodies SSA strong positive 3+, SSB borderline positive and RO 52 strong positive 3+. She lost her first pregnancy before a year because complete congenital heart block (CHB) was found in the fetus by TIFFA at19 weeks with a condition of fetal hydrops bradycardia. She conceived again and now going with 36th week. Her medications are Aspirin 75 mg one daily, Wysolone 5 mg once daily, HCQs 200 once daily, Folvite 5 mg, Sandocal 500 daily two, Livogen and taking protein powder also. To suppress antibodies, rheumatologist put her on steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs since 12th week. There is no problem till now except fetus growth restriction. Because of that, our doctor advised to go for delivery at 37 weeks. Fetus weight grew just 7.055 ounce in the last two weeks, but my wife increased to 130 pounds from 109.2 pounds. But, she has lost initially 6.6 pounds in her first trimester. She did not have any complication right now. Is delivery at 37 weeks necessary? What are the risks from fetus side if she gets delivery at 37 weeks? Will the baby growth remain normal after birth? If we extend the term up to 38 weeks, do we need to face any risk? For your reference, I have enclosed latest fetal scan report and doctors prescription. Please understand all my concern and give the valuable advice for us. Thank you.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I have gone through your question and understood your concerns. I have reviewed the reports (attachment removed to protect patient identity) and the prescription. Delivery should be conducted at 37 weeks if there is fetal growth restriction in ultrasound. In the ultrasound report, the fetal doppler is slightly deranged, and hence, it is better to conduct delivery at 37 weeks. There will be no or minimal risks to the baby if the baby born at 37 weeks, as the baby will be matured at that gestational age. Yes, babies who are growth restricted in utero will catch up their growth very quickly in the neonatal period. There are no issues with growth if the proper nutrition is maintained. Delivery can be delayed till 38 weeks only if the fetal doppler is normal. Fetal movements and non-stress test of the fetus is completely normal. In your wife's case, the fetal doppler is just starting to get deranged, hence delivery is advised at 37 weeks. Thank you and take care.
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