North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

What type of fetal growth retardation is linked to uteroplacental insufficiency?

1. Asymmetric growth retardation

2. Symmetric growth retardation

3. Normal growth

4. Excessive growth

The correct answer is: Asymmetric growth retardation

Asymmetric growth retardation is characterized by a situation where the fetal head and brain are preserved in size while the abdomen and body growth are restricted. This type of growth restriction typically occurs due to uteroplacental insufficiency, which affects the blood flow and nutrients that the fetus receives from the placenta. When the placenta is unable to adequately supply the fetus, the body prioritizes essential growth of vital organs, particularly the brain, over the rest of the body. This preservation of brain size while other parts of the body lag behind is a physiological response to limited resources, distinguishing asymmetric growth from symmetric growth retardation, where growth is affected uniformly across all fetal parameters. Understanding this concept is crucial for midwives as it helps inform monitoring approaches and intervention strategies during pregnancy to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the fetus.