(February 9, 2010 - Insidermedicine)

Several physical characteristics of mothers as well as lifestyle habits such as smoking and use of supplements can affect growth of the fetus in early pregnancy, which in turn can influence the eventual outcome of pregnancy, according to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Here is some information about preterm birth:

•    It is defined as a birth that takes place before 37 weeks' gestation. Normally, pregnancy lasts 40 weeks.

•    It is a leading cause of infant death

•    Babies born preterm are at increased risk for several health problems, including potentially life-threatening breathing difficulties, infections, and cerebral palsy

Researchers from Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam looked at the relationship between several physical characteristics and lifestyle habits among over 1,500 mothers-to-be and the growth of their fetuses during the first trimester of their pregnancy. The investigators also looked at whether restrictions in growth during this period were associated with negative outcomes of the pregnancy.

Fetal growth during the first trimester was greater among older mothers.  High blood pressure and a high concentration of red blood cells in the mother's circulation  were associated with poor fetal growth. Fetal growth was reduced among mothers who both smoked and failed to take supplements of folic acid in an optimal manner. Restrictions in growth during the first trimester were associated with babies being born either prematurely or being born at term but being underweight and/or small. Smaller babies tended to grow faster than usual during their first two years of life.

Today's research helps identify some key factors that affect fetal growth, which in turn can affect the outcomes of pregnancy.