Fetal macrosomia in a military hospital: Incidence, risk factors, and outcome

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to determine the incidence of fetal macrosomia, analyze risk factors, and review maternal and fetal outcome. Macrosomia occurred in 15.1% of deliveries, with very macrosomic fetuses comprising 4.1% of these pregnancies; 61.3% were male. Diabetes mellitus, post-term pregnancy, and excessive weight gain were identified as maternal risk factors. The incidence of shoulder dystocia, birth injury, and low Apgar scores was significantly higher than in controls. In addition, cesarean section rates were higher for the macrosomic groups. Fetuses delivered vaginally had more frequent birth injury than those delivered by cesarean section. Women at risk for fetal macrosomia should be screened, and liberal use of cesarean section is recommended.