A baby boy named Cassian, born in the United States earlier this year weighing 5.8 kilograms, became an internet sensation after news of his birth spread globally. Headlines described him as a record-breaking "giant" newborn, though he is not the heaviest baby ever born. In 2023, a baby boy in Brazil weighed 7.3 kilograms at birth. Macrosomia refers to babies born over 4 or 4.5 kilograms, or those exceeding the 90th percentile for their gestational age. In Australia, around 9 to 10 per cent of births involve large babies, a figure that has remained stable over the past decade. While stories of oversized newborns capture media attention, most big babies are healthy. However, larger birth weights can increase risks of complications during delivery, including the need for medical interventions. Factors such as genetics, gestational diabetes, maternal weight, and overdue pregnancies contribute to bigger babies. Predicting birth weight remains challenging despite modern ultrasound technology.
Health Risks and Birth Complications
Babies weighing more than 4.5 kilograms face higher chances of birth complications, though serious issues are uncommon. Mothers may require interventions such as forceps, vacuum delivery, or caesarean sections, which can affect recovery and future birth options. A major concern is shoulder dystocia, where the baby's shoulders become stuck in the birth canal. Midwives and obstetricians may perform special manoeuvres to safely deliver the baby, such as repositioning a shoulder caught behind the pubic bone. These procedures can occasionally cause oxygen restriction or injury, requiring resuscitation. However, complications often occur unexpectedly, even when a large baby was not anticipated. Most big babies are born healthy without significant problems.
Predicting Baby Size and Prevention Tips
Estimating a baby's weight before birth is notoriously inaccurate. Healthcare providers measure the uterus and use ultrasounds, but the Big Baby Trial published earlier this year showed that around 60 per cent of babies predicted to be large were not actually big at birth. The trial involved nearly 3,000 women in the United Kingdom and found little difference in outcomes between early induction and waiting for natural labour. Women can reduce risks by maintaining a healthy weight (BMI under 30) before pregnancy, eating balanced diets, limiting sugar and saturated fats, exercising regularly, and managing diabetes carefully. Close monitoring during pregnancy is essential for women with gestational diabetes or those expecting larger babies.
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