If a fetus is found to have an estimated fetal weight (EFW) below the 10th percentile, what is the recommended next step?

When a fetus is determined to have an estimated fetal weight below the 10th percentile, it is indicative of possible intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or other complications. This situation warrants a careful and thorough assessment, as the implications for fetal health and delivery can be significant. Consulting with an obstetrician is the appropriate next step because obstetricians have the specialized training and resources to evaluate the underlying causes of the low fetal weight and to determine an appropriate management plan.

An obstetrician can perform additional diagnostic testing, such as ultrasounds and surveillance of fetal well-being, to assess the situation comprehensively. They can also consider the timing and mode of delivery, as well as the need for interventions to safeguard the health of both the mother and the fetus. By involving an obstetrician at this critical juncture, the care team can work collaboratively to optimize outcomes based on the specific situation of the pregnancy.

Other options, such as emergency cesarean section or routine follow-up with midwifery care, may not address the immediate need for specialized evaluation in the context of a suspected growth restriction. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician, while essential after birth, would not address the concerns during pregnancy regarding the health of the fetus