Small for Gestational Age (SGA) & Catch-Up Growth

What is SGA?

SGA means a baby was born smaller than 90% of other babies of the same gestational age (weeks of pregnancy).

What is Catch-Up Growth?

Most SGA babies (about 90%) undergo a period of rapid growth in the first 2 years of life and reach a normal height.

When to see an Endocrinologist:

If an SGA child has not caught up by age 2 to 4, they may remain short permanently without help.

Treatment:

The FDA has approved Growth Hormone Therapy for SGA children who have not caught up by age 2-4.

  • Goal: To help them reach a normal adult height and improve body composition (muscle vs. fat).
  • Metabolic Health: SGA children are at higher risk for Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome later in life. Healthy diet and exercise are crucial from a young age.

Resources: