Risk Factors and Outcomes of Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Pregnancies

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a major obstetric complication associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality. It results from complex interactions between maternal, fetal and placental factors and remains a key contributor to adverse neonatal outcomes, particularly in low-resource settings. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors and maternal-neonatal outcomes of IUGR in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: A case-control study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangladesh Medical University, Dhaka, from January to December 2025. A total of 80 pregnant women were included, with 40 IUGR cases and 40 matched controls. Data on socio-demographic variables, clinical risk factors, obstetric complications and neonatal outcomes were collected using structured forms and hospital records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0 and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Results: Maternal age extremes, low socioeconomic status, low BMI and inadequate antenatal care were significantly associated with IUGR. Pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia and anemia were important clinical risk factors. Obstetric complications such as oligohydramnios, placental insufficiency and preterm delivery were significantly higher among cases. Neonates born to IUGR mothers had higher rates of low birth weight (80%), NICU admission (50%), respiratory distress (35%) and low Apgar scores. Conclusion: IUGR is strongly associated with adverse maternal conditions and poor neonatal outcomes. Early detection and targeted antenatal interventions are essential to reduce associated morbidity and improve perinatal health outcomes.