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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Rapid Fetal Growth?

I am 32 weeks along with my pregnancy. During my last routine visit my doctor measured my belly and came to the conclusion that my baby is bigger than she should be. Of course another ultrasound is scheduled for tomorrow. What could cause this rapid fetal growth? Could I just be farther ahead in my pregnancy?

Wed, 18 Dec 2013
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OBGYN 's  Response
Hello
Thanks for writing to us with your health concern.
From what I gather, the impression of the baby being bigger was had by your doctor on clinical examination.
This can be due to various reasons.
A full bladder could give such a picture.
Also, if you are lying in a certain posture, it appears that the baby is bigger.
Before 36 weeks, before the head of the baby drops into the pelvis, babies do appear bigger.
The baby might be in a transverse position, thus appearing bigger.
Twins would have been ruled out by now.
Of course, it is possible that the growth of the baby is above normal, which can occur in case of - parents who are heavy built, diabetic mothers etc.
AMniotic fluid that is in excess around the baby can give such an impression.
A tumour or fibroid could also confuse the doctor.
Wait for your ultrasound and then arrive to a conclusion.
Take care.
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What Causes Rapid Fetal Growth?

Hello Thanks for writing to us with your health concern. From what I gather, the impression of the baby being bigger was had by your doctor on clinical examination. This can be due to various reasons. A full bladder could give such a picture. Also, if you are lying in a certain posture, it appears that the baby is bigger. Before 36 weeks, before the head of the baby drops into the pelvis, babies do appear bigger. The baby might be in a transverse position, thus appearing bigger. Twins would have been ruled out by now. Of course, it is possible that the growth of the baby is above normal, which can occur in case of - parents who are heavy built, diabetic mothers etc. AMniotic fluid that is in excess around the baby can give such an impression. A tumour or fibroid could also confuse the doctor. Wait for your ultrasound and then arrive to a conclusion. Take care.