A small for gestational age foetus is defined by the foetal weight below the 10th centile for the corresponding gestational age. However, the vast majority of these cases has no apparent underlying abnormality, while in other cases a serious causative pathological condition can be identified. The detection, follow-up and treatment of an intrauterine growth retarded, compromised foetus has great obstetric and neonatologic relevance. In this review, the causes, clinical aspects and screening methods of intrauterine growth retardation are summarized based on the most recent international guidelines. Furthermore, recommendations regarding the monitoring and the optimal timing of the labour induction of pregnancies complicated with intrauterine growth retardation are discussed.