What is IUGR and why is my baby measuring small?

Ultrasound technicians typically use a standard measurement for growth. While there are a few available formulas for this measurement, most use the Abdominal Circumference measurement as part of the calculation. In a baby with gastroschisis, this measurement is not...

I have low fluids, is this normal?

Oligohydramnios (or low amniotic fluid levels) can occur during gastroschisis pregnancy. This is usually detected during a Biophysical Profile (or BPP) and is measured by the Amniotic Fluid Index (or AFI). Low fluid is a concern because of an increased risk of...

I have high fluids, is this normal?

Polyhydramnios (or high amniotic fluid levels) is also a possible occurrence in gastroschisis pregnancies.  This can happen due to fetal intestinal dysfunction and nutrient malabsorption resulting in excess amino acids in the amniotic fluid10. While there can be...

Can you tell me more about dilated loops of bowel?

Bowel Dilation simply means that the baby’s intestines are measuring larger in some parts than others and can be a sign of complications.12 This can be caused by several factors, including bowel irritation which some doctors believe is caused by exposure to amniotic...

What is the survival rate?

The survival rate is approximately 90% in industrialized nations with access to proper medical care. In the United States, published survival rates range from 83%-97%.17 See our Gastroschisis page for more information. 17....

When will I deliver?

There is much debate over what gestational time is optimal for gastroschisis delivery. Gastroschisis infants tend to be born early. Average gestational age is around 36 weeks for spontaneous (non-induced) labour.18 Traditional wisdom held that the optimum time to...