Small for gestational age
Abbreviation: SGA
Small for gestational age (SGA) describes a baby whose birth weight falls below the 10th percentile for their gestational age and sex. This means the baby is smaller than 90% of babies born at the same stage of pregnancy. SGA can be constitutional, meaning the baby is simply naturally small due to genetics, or it can signal fetal growth restriction caused by placental problems, maternal health issues, infections, or chromosomal conditions. Doctors monitor SGA babies closely after birth for low blood sugar, difficulty feeding, and temperature regulation problems. Most SGA babies catch up in growth within the first two years of life.
What This Means for You
Understanding Small for gestational age is an important part of your birth journey. In your baby's first year, you will hear this term from your paediatrician and in parenting communities. Knowing what it means helps you respond quickly and confidently.
Explore our Baby hubGood to Know
At KKH and NUH, SGA babies are assessed using growth charts calibrated for Asian populations, as Singaporean babies tend to have lower average birth weights than Western references. Ask your care team which chart they use.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/dictionary
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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