Small for gestational age (SGA)

• Alternative names
• Definition

• Information

Alternative names   

Definition    Return to top

The term "small for gestational age", or SGA, means a fetus or infant is smaller in size than is expected for the baby's gender, genetic heritage, and gestational age.

Information    Return to top

Ultrasound is used to identify intrauterine growth restriction (a developing fetus that isВ smaller-than-normal for its age). The most widely used definition of SGA is birth weight below the 10th percentile.

Neonatal growth restriction is a syndrome that includes small size and specific metabolic abnormalities. These abnormalities include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level), hypothermia (low body temperature), and polycythemia (increased level of red blood cells).