Amniotic fluid has an important role for the growth and development of the baby in the womb. However, in some conditions your little one can experience amniotic fluid poisoning or meconium aspiration. What are the effects of amniotic fluid poisoning in babies? Check out the following explanation.
Amniotic fluid intoxication is a term used to express meconium aspiration or meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS). This condition occurs when the fetus or newborn breathes in the amniotic fluid that has been mixed with the first stool (meconium). This can take place before, during, or after delivery.
Causes of Meconium Aspiration
Normally, newborns pass their first stool, known as meconium. This first stool has a sticky, thick, and dark green texture. Passing meconium in the first 48 hours of fetal life is also a sign of the absence of congenital abnormalities, such as the absence of an anus (atresia ani).
In a normal pregnancy, the fetus should not pass meconium while still in the womb. But in some circumstances, this can happen, such as when the fetus is under stress or when experiencing hypoxia (decreased oxygen levels).
As a result, meconium can mix with the amniotic fluid, increasing the risk of meconium aspiration. In addition, there are several other factors that can increase the risk of meconium aspiration, including:
- Difficult labor or prolonged labor.
- Gestational age >42 weeks.
- Disorders of the placenta.
- Fetal growth disorders.
Is Meconium Aspiration Dangerous?
Yes, meconium aspiration is a condition that can be fatal. Meconium aspiration is even one of the symptoms of fetal distress. This is because this condition can lead to several dangerous conditions, such as the following:
- Meconium that is accidentally inhaled irritates the respiratory tract and can even cause inflammation and infection.
- When your baby's airway is blocked due to meconium. The lungs may expand excessively. At an advanced stage this can make the lungs rupture or destroy.
- Damage to the lungs can also cause air to escape which then builds up in the chest cavity and causes a pneumothorax. This will make it difficult for the lungs to expand again.
- Although rare, meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) can limit the supply of oxygen to the brain. This can cause permanent brain damage to the fetus.
Given the dangers of amniotic fluid poisoning or meconium aspiration, during pregnancy carry out regular prenatal checkups, so that any pregnancy disorders can be detected and treated early.
