Which statement about macrosomia is true?

Which statement about macrosomia is true?

• A. Macrosomia indicates larger-than-average fetal size and carries its own perinatal risks.
• B. Macrosomia refers to restricted growth with placental insufficiency.
• C. Macrosomia occurs only in twin pregnancies.
• D. Macrosomia has no effect on management.

Answer: (A)

Macrosomia is the concept that a fetus is larger than the typical size, usually defined as a birth weight around 4,000 g or more. This larger size brings its own perinatal risks, such as shoulder dystocia, birth injuries, neonatal hypoglycemia, and a higher likelihood of labor complications that can lead to cesarean delivery. Because of these potential problems, management focuses on anticipating a larger baby when risk factors are present (like maternal diabetes or obesity), planning delivery in a setting where shoulder dystocia can be managed, and discussing delivery options and timing with the patient. It isn’t about restricted growth or placental insufficiency—that describes fetal growth restriction. Macrosomia is not restricted to twin pregnancies; it can occur in singletons as well. And because of the added risks, macrosomia does influence how we plan and monitor labor and delivery.

Macrosomia is the concept that a fetus is larger than the typical size, usually defined as a birth weight around 4,000 g or more. This larger size brings its own perinatal risks, such as shoulder dystocia, birth injuries, neonatal hypoglycemia, and a higher likelihood of labor complications that can lead to cesarean delivery. Because of these potential problems, management focuses on anticipating a larger baby when risk factors are present (like maternal diabetes or obesity), planning delivery in a setting where shoulder dystocia can be managed, and discussing delivery options and timing with the patient. It isn’t about restricted growth or placental insufficiency—that describes fetal growth restriction. Macrosomia is not restricted to twin pregnancies; it can occur in singletons as well. And because of the added risks, macrosomia does influence how we plan and monitor labor and delivery.