Birth Asphyxia
Birth asphyxia occurs when a baby doesn't receive enough oxygen before, during or just after birth. There are many reasons that birth asphyxia may occur.
Some of the causes of decreased oxygen before or during the birth process may include:
Inadequate oxygen levels in the mother's blood due to heart or respiratory problems or lowered respirations caused by anesthesia
Low blood pressure in the mother
Inadequate relaxation of the uterus during labor that prevents oxygen circulation to the placenta
Early separation of the placenta from the uterus, called placental abruption
Compression of the umbilical cord that decreases blood flow
Poor placenta function that may occur with high blood pressure or in post-term pregnancies, particularly those past 42 weeks
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Signs and SymptomsDiagnosisTreatment
Each baby may experience symptoms of birth asphyxia differently. However, the following are the most common symptoms.
Before delivery, symptoms may include:
Abnormal heart rate or rhythm
An increased acid level in a baby's blood
At birth, symptoms may include:
Bluish or pale skin color
Low heart rate
Weak muscle tone and reflexes
Weak cry
Gasping or weak breathing
Meconium — the first stool passed by the baby — in the amniotic fluid, which can block small airways and interfere with breathing