Placental weight and size in relation to fetal growth restriction: a case-control study

Objective: Reductions in placental weight and size have been associated with reduced fetal growth. However, few studies have examined the association of placental weight and size with the risk of fetal growth restriction (FGR). Methods: We enrolled 121 mother-newborn pairs, including 54 FGR cases and 67 healthy controls, from our previous case-control study. The weight, surface area, and thickness of the placenta were measured by medical professionals. Results: Reduced placental weight and surface area were found to be associated with decreased birth weight. A 10-unit decrement in placental weight (g) and surface area (cm(2)) was associated with 33.9 (beta = 33.9, 95% CI, 22.1-45.7) and 24.3 (beta = 24.3, 95% CI, 11.2-37.5) g decrease in birth weight, respectively. Those associations varied by infant gender and the magnitudes of effect were larger among male fetuses. Moreover, reduced placental weight and surface area were associated with increased odds of FGR. A 10-unit decrease in placental weight and surface area were associated with 21% (OR = 1.21, 95% CI, 1.08-1.44) and 19% (OR = 1.19, 95% CI, 1.06-1.41) increase in the odds of FGR. Conclusions: Our results suggest that fetuses with lower placental weight and smaller surface area are at higher risk of developing FGR.

Automated summary

Reductions in placental weight and size are associated with decreased birth weight and increased odds of fetal growth restriction (FGR). These associations are more significant in male fetuses.