Warning signs during childbirth (WOMEN’S SPHERE) – AulaGynecology

ANXIETY AT BIRTH

Dr. Juan Modesto tells us about the main warning signs during labor: meconium-stained fluid, abnormal CTG, fetal skull PH, excessive contractions, excessive bleeding…

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During labor, there may be signs that something is not going as expected. In most cases, it is the professionals who spot these signs and act accordingly. However, if you notice any of these warning signs, you can also let the professionals know so that they can take the necessary action.

MECONIUM-Stained Liquid
Amniotic fluid is usually clear. We call it meconium-stained fluid when it turns greenish-brown due to meconium secretion.

Meconium is the baby’s first bowel movement. It is usually released in the first hours after birth, but sometimes expulsion can occur in utero, coloring the amniotic fluid.

This intrauterine expulsion of meconium can occur due to some type of fetal stress, such as lack of oxygen. However, it can also be due to other reasons, such as post-term pregnancy. Sometimes this stress is temporary, and even if the amniotic fluid is colored, the baby may be fine.

Having said that, the presence of meconium-stained fluid is not a reliable indicator of fetal stress and generally does not help us make decisions during labor. If the fluid is colored but other indicators, such as fetal cardiac monitoring (CTM), are normal, there is no cause for concern.

ABNORMAL CTG
CTG is used to monitor fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. The normal fetal heart rate is between 110 and 160 beats per minute. However, this range is not the only aspect we evaluate when interpreting a recording; We also take into account variability (other than a straight line) and other important details and nuances.

PH OF FETAL CALOT
In some centers, if there is any doubt about the interpretation of the CTG, a small sample of blood can be taken from the baby’s scalp through a small prick. This helps doctors decide whether it is safe to continue labor or whether a C-section is necessary. However, the usefulness of this test is questionable and not all centers use it.

HIGH TEMPERATURE
An increase in temperature during childbirth is relatively common, especially in later stages and during long labor. However, a high fever may be a sign of infection or another complication that needs attention. The medical team will work to determine the cause of the fever and treat accordingly.

TOO FREQUENT ABBREVIATIONS
Too frequent uterine contractions can have a negative effect on the baby. This occurs more often with the use of oxytocin, although it can also occur spontaneously.

PROFESSIONAL BLEEDING
Childbirth is a process that typically involves bleeding. However, it is important to distinguish between normal bleeding and bleeding that is not.

During labor, bleeding in amounts similar to menstrual bleeding may be normal. However, heavier bleeding is a cause for concern and you should see a doctor immediately.

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