Delivery of the macrosomic infant: cesarean section versus vaginal delivery

Semin Perinatol. 2002 Jun;26(3):225-31. doi: 10.1053/sper.2002.33975.

Abstract

The macrosomic fetus of a diabetic woman faces increased risk for injury at the time of birth. Cesarean section offers the potential for avoiding trauma to the fetus, but can result in increased morbidity in the mother as compared to vaginal delivery. In this article, the advantages and disadvantages of the 2 routes of delivery for the overgrown fetus of a diabetic mother are discussed. In addition, methods for diagnosing macrosomia by ultrasound are examined, along with the benefits and pitfalls of ultrasonic fetal weight estimation in the setting of diabetes. Finally, management approaches for selecting route of delivery for the macrosomic fetus are described and analyzed.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cesarean Section*
  • Dystocia / pathology
  • Dystocia / prevention & control
  • Dystocia / surgery
  • Female
  • Fetal Macrosomia / diagnostic imaging
  • Fetal Macrosomia / physiopathology*
  • Fetal Macrosomia / surgery
  • Fetal Weight / physiology
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy in Diabetics / physiopathology*
  • Pregnancy in Diabetics / surgery
  • Risk Factors
  • Ultrasonography