What is a common symmetrical cause of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR)?

Aneuploidy is a common symmetrical cause of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) because it involves a chromosomal abnormality that affects fetal development uniformly. When an embryo has an abnormal number of chromosomes, it can lead to a cascade of growth and developmental issues, including a consistent pattern of underdevelopment across most organ systems. This symmetry in growth restriction differentiates aneuploidy-related IUGR from other causes, which might affect growth asymmetrically or sporadically.

In contrast, preterm labor typically results in complications associated with premature birth rather than a direct cause of symmetrical growth restriction. Excessive weight gain during pregnancy is more related to maternal health and can contribute to macrosomia. Gestational diabetes influences fetal growth primarily through large birth size rather than impairing growth symmetrically, as it often leads to asymmetric growth patterns where certain parts of the fetus grow more than others. Therefore, aneuploidy stands out as a classic cause of symmetrical IUGR due to its fundamental impact on the genetic makeup and overall development of the fetus.