What weight defines fetal macrosomia in a term infant?

Fetal macrosomia is defined as a condition in which a term infant has an excessive birth weight, typically recognized when weighing over 4000 grams. However, the distinction often used in clinical settings to indicate a higher risk of complications during delivery and later health issues designates a birth weight of 4500 grams or greater as defining macrosomia.

This threshold is based on studies linking higher birth weights with increased risks of labor complications, cesarean delivery, and potential long-term health problems for the infant, such as obesity and diabetes. Therefore, when classifying fetal macrosomia, 4500 grams serves as a critical marker, as it is associated with notable clinical implications, indicating the need for careful monitoring and management during labor and the perinatal period.