Will a smaller-than-average fetus affect intelligence?

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) may result in low birth weight. A smaller-than-expected fetus can be associated with multiple factors, such as genetics, maternal malnutrition, placental insufficiency, chronic diseases (such as diabetes and hypertension), or certain infections. Although mild cases of fetal growth restriction generally do not significantly affect intelligence, severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) may impair brain development, as the brain requires adequate nutrition for normal development.

If a fetus experiences growth restriction during critical periods of brain development, it may lead to problems with nervous system development, potentially affecting the child's later intellectual and learning abilities. However, this does not mean all small-for-gestational-age infants will experience intellectual impairments; many children, with appropriate postnatal care and nutritional support, demonstrate catch-up growth and achieve normal intellectual development.

Doctors will closely monitor fetal growth and provide necessary assessments and interventions after birth, such as early intervention services and nutritional guidance, to promote optimal child development.