Definition

Macrosomia is when a baby is larger than normal before birth. Most babies are about 7 pounds (3.17 kilograms). Babies with this health problem are 8 pounds, 13 ounces (3.99 kilograms) or more.

Causes

The most common cause is diabetes in the mother during pregnancy.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk are:

• Mother having diabetes or gestational diabetes
• Mother is obese
• Mother and/or father of large size
• Too much weight gain by the mother during pregnancy

Symptoms

The main sign is a predicted birth weight of at least 8 pounds, 13 ounces or more.

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical and pelvic exam will be done.

Pictures may be taken to estimate the birth weight. This can be done with ultrasound.

Ultrasound of Fetus Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to safely deliver the baby. The baby may be too large to be delivered through the birth canal. A Cesarean delivery (C-section) may be done.

Prevention

To lower the risk of this problem:

• Get early prenatal care.
• Maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy.
• Manage diabetes.