Intrauterine growth retardation.

Approximately one-tenth of all pregnancies are complicated by fetal growth retardation, a condition which significantly increases the risk of fetal morbidity and mortality. Antepartum diagnosis with ultrasound, including qualitative amniotic fluid volume determination, improves the outcome of these pregnancies. Fetal surveillance, particularly by nonstress and contraction stress testing, provides objective evidence indicating when aggressive intervention is needed.