During the stressful labor, the infant may suffer a lack of oxygen. The inhaled meconium can cause a partial or complete blockage of the airways, causing difficulty breathing and poor gas exchange in the lungs. In addition, it is irritating and causes inflammation in the airways and a type of pneumonia. Meconium staining of the amniotic fluid with possibility of aspiration occurs in approximately 5 percent to 10 percent of births. About one third of the infants with meconium aspiration will require some type of assisted breathing.
Meconium aspiration is a leading cause of severe illness and death in the newborn.
The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 Copyright and Privacy Policy , We welcome your comments.