Macrosomia can happen anytime, and there is no specific way to stop it. However, you can take steps to lower your baby’s risk. If you have type 1, 2, or gestational diabetes, do what you can to keep your blood sugar under control. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to control your diabetes while you’re pregnant, like eating a diet high in complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber and low in cholesterol, saturated fat, and refined sugars.
Whether you have diabetes or not, you should also take steps to maintain a healthy weight. If you gained too much weight during a previous pregnancy or are worried about gaining too much weight this time around, talk to your doctor about safe ways to prevent weight gain. Most doctors advise pregnant women to get at least 30 minutes of low-intensity exercise five days a week, like walking or yoga, and to eat a healthy diet with lots of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean protein.
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It can be harder to have normal deliveries with bigger babies. If your baby is getting big, your doctor will probably want you to give birth in the hospital in case you need forceps, a vacuum, or a C-section. Even though their babies have macrosomia, many moms can still give birth vaginally. There are, however, times when your doctor might suggest a C-section ahead of time. For example-
No matter how your baby comes into the world, they will be checked for blood sugar problems or any possible birth injuries. You’ll also need to be tested for diabetes if you weren’t found to have it during pregnancy.
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Macrosomia is manageable, but it can put moms and babies at risk, especially when babies are born weighing more than 9 pounds 15 ounces. Shoulder dystocia is one such problem that is likely to happen to babies who are born vaginally. If your doctor thinks your baby has shoulder dystocia, they might try to move your baby or you to get your baby to switch positions. If that doesn’t work, your doctor may use a vacuum device or forceps or suggest an emergency C-section.
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Giant babies can sometimes cause the mother to tear or bleed more after giving birth. Moms who have had a C-section before are more likely to have a uterine rupture, a rare but serious problem in which the uterus tears open along the scar line.
After being born, a macrosomic baby is more likely to need a short stay in the NICU because they can be born with low blood sugar, jaundice, or trouble breathing. But remember that most babies born with macrosomia don’t have any problems and can go home with you as soon as you’re cleared to be discharged. However, there could be problems for both you and your baby if you have macrosomia. Although the condition can still be treated, many babies born with macrosomia are healthy. Just remember to keep a lot of XL-sized diapers ready.
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