Q: I am a 24 years old female into my eighth month of pregnancy. I underwent Doppler test, which showed that there is fetoplacental insufficiency. My doctor has asked me to increase the intake of fluids and take bed rest. Please guide me.

A:If the baby is small, fluids and bed rest are not sufficient. You need to take a high calorie, high protein diet. Please get checked to know what type of small baby is it- generally small or with normal head size. Then the cause needs to be looked into anaemia, malnutrition, genetic, hypertension or infection and treatment started accordingly. You will need to keep a check on the baby’s movements, have regular check ups, and have delivery in a centre with good nursery facility.