Birth Asphyxia is a medical emergency affecting newborns. Learn its causes, symptoms, treatment options, complications and how to prevent it.
Introduction
Birth Asphyxia also known as Neonatal Asphyxia, Perinatal Asphyxia or oxygen deprivation at birth is a critical condition that occurs when a baby doesn’t receive oxygen before, during or immediately after birth. Many babies experience limited levels of reduced oxygen after birth, and this usually is not the problem, but when lack of oxygen is severe and long-lasting it could have an effect on the infant.
The World Health Organization (WHO), defines birth asphyxia as the failure to establish breathing at birth, and it accounts for an estimated 900,000 deaths each year, and is one of the primary causes of early neonatal mortality.
Understanding the causes, warning signs, and proper medical responses can save lives and reduce complications
In this article, we will break down what birth asphyxia is, what causes it, how it can be treated, and most importantly how to prevent it.
What is birth asphyxia?
Birth Asphyxia is the inability of a newborn to establish breathing at birth.
The baby does not get enough oxygen during or right after delivery.
Birth asphyxia happens when a baby’s brain and other organs do not get enough oxygen. This can lead to damage in vital organs such as the brain, heart, lungs, and kidneys. The severity depends on how long the baby is deprived of oxygen and how quickly they receive treatment.
In mild cases, babies may recover fully with proper care. In severe cases, it can result in permanent disabilities or even stillbirth if not managed promptly.
CAUSES OF BIRTH ASPHYXIA.
Variety of factors can cause birth asphyxia. These can relate to the pregnant woman or foetus, and they include;
- Umbilical cord prolapse: This birth complication occurs when the umbilical cord leaves the cervix before the baby.
- Compression of umbilical cord.
- Meconium aspiration syndrome:This syndrome occurs when a baby inhales a mixture amniotic fluid and meconium
- Premature birth: If a baby is born before 37 weeks their lungs may not yet be fully developed, and they may be unable to breathe properly.
- Amniotic fluid embolism: Although rare, this complication occurs when the amniotic fluid enters the pregnant person’s bloodstream and causes an allergic reaction .
- Prolong or difficult labor.
- High or low blood pressure in pregnancy
- Infection during labor
- Uterine rupture
- Anaemia: In a baby with anaemia, the blood cells are not carrying enough oxygen.
SYMPTOMS OF BIRTH ASPHYXIA.
Lack of oxygen at birth can cause mild to severe symptoms in infants. Some potential signs and symptoms may include;
- Respiratory distress
- Signs of hypoxia, such as turning bluish.
- Decreased muscle reflexes.
- Poor muscle tone
- Seizures may occur in severe cases.
- Low heart rate
RISK FACTORS OF NEONATAL BIRTH ASPHYXIA.
- Premature or late term birth
- Abnormal birth positioning (such as breech or posterior position).
- Cesarean section
- Multiple birth(twins, triplets)
- Poor nutrition
- Lack of prenatal/antenatal care
- Anaemia
STAGES OF NEONATAL ASPHYXIA.
Neonatal Asphyxia Occurs in two stages
- The first stage occurs when blood flow is reduced and blood cells do not get enough oxygen as a result.
- The second stage, called reperfusion injury, occurs in the hours, days, or weeks after oxygen and blood flow are restored.
Reperfusion injury is caused when damaged cells release toxins that were built up in them during the first stage of asphyxia. These toxins cause secondary damage to the patient.
Fortunately, the second stage of neonatal asphyxia doesn’t always occur, so not all patients experience reperfusion injury.
HOW IS BIRTH ASPHYXIA DIAGNOSED?
The following criteria may be used to diagnose birth asphyxia in newborns:
- signs of brain or neurological damage, such as weak muscle tone, a weak suck, breathing issues, and seizures
- signs of organ failure
- high acid levels (a pH less than 7) in the infant’s blood or umbilical cord
- An APGAR score of five or less 10 minutes after birth, along with a prolonged requirement for resuscitation
POSSIBLE COMPLICATION.
If not treated promptly, birth asphyxia can lead to:
- Cerebral palsy
- Developmental delays
- Learning difficulties
- Seizures
- Hearing or vision loss
Some babies recover fully, but others may need long-term support.
HOW TO PREVENT BIRTH ASPHYXIA
The good news? Birth asphyxia is often preventable with proper care:
- Go for regular antenatal checkups
- Manage conditions like high blood pressure or infections
- Deliver with a skilled healthcare provider
- Monitor labor closely with fetal heart monitoring
- Plan early for high-risk pregnancies.
CONCLUSION
While birth asphyxia is a serious condition, awareness and prompt action can save lives. If you’re an expecting parent, talk to your healthcare provider about your delivery plan and what signs to watch for during labor and delivery.
At blue gloves hospital, we prioritize the health of every mother and newborn. Our team of dedicated specialists ensures that every birth is safe, monitored, and supported with world class care. Trust us to guide you through a healthy and safe delivery journey.
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