INVESTIGATING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PLACENTAL WEIGHT AND BIRTH WEIGHT: IMPLICATIONS FOR FETAL GROWTH

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between placental growth, which may be measured indirectly using anthropometric placental measurements, and placental disease, a known contributor to perinatal and neonatal health hazards. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to ascertain the average placental weight and how it related to the mother's body mass index (BMI) and birthweight.

Background: The relationship between placental weight and birth weight is of paramount importance in understanding fetal growth and development. This research paper explores the intricate interplay between these variables and its implications for fetal health. A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted to synthesize current knowledge and identify gaps in understanding. Key findings underscore a significant correlation between placental weight and birth weight, indicating the critical role of the placenta in facilitating nutrient transfer and supporting fetal growth. Moreover, various maternal and environmental factors were identified as influential determinants of this relationship. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for informing clinical practices aimed at optimizing maternal-fetal health outcomes. Future research directions should focus on elucidating underlying mechanisms and developing interventions to promote optimal placental function and fetal growth.

Methodology: A total of 1100 singleton term deliveries that satisfied the study's inclusion criteria had information on gestational age at delivery, parity, delivery technique, fetal birth weight, placental weight, fetal gender, and maternal medical problems gathered. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for the statistical analysis, with a significance level of p < 0.06. 

Results: The mean birth weight of neonates ranged from 2030 to 5020 grams, with an average of 34567±768 grams, while the proportional weight ranged from 290 to 980 grams. The average placental birth weight ratio was 18.2±2.4 weeks, and the average gestational age at delivery was 49.9±1.1 weeks. Placental weight increased in proportion to an increase in neonatal birth weight. Nonetheless, the rate of rise in neonatal birth weight surpassed the rate of increase in placental weight as gestational age at term increased.  Conclusion: there is a positive relationship between neonatal birth weight and placental weight. However, as gestational age increases to term, the ratio of placental to neonatal birth weights decreases. Therefore, extending a pregnancy past term may be harmful to the health of the fetus.