Fetal hypoxia, or oxygen deprivation in the fetus, is a serious medical condition that can have long-term consequences for a newborn. It is important to understand what indicates fetal hypoxia in order to detect it early and begin treatment.
Signs of Fetal Hypoxia
The main signs of fetal hypoxia are decreased fetal movements, an abnormally low heart rate, and an increased acidity in the amniotic fluid. Decreased fetal movements usually occur when the baby is not receiving enough oxygen to move normally. An abnormally low heart rate, usually defined as less than 110 beats per minute, is another indication that the baby is not receiving enough oxygen. Lastly, an increased acidity in the amniotic fluid, or an amniotic fluid pH of less than 7.2, is a sign that the baby is not getting enough oxygen.
Testing for Fetal Hypoxia
The most common test for fetal hypoxia is a non-stress test (NST). During an NST, the baby's heart rate is monitored for a period of time. If the baby's heart rate is less than 110 beats per minute or if the baby does not move for a certain period of time, it may indicate a lack of oxygen.
Other tests that may be used to diagnose fetal hypoxia include an umbilical artery Doppler, an amniotic fluid analysis, and an ultrasound examination. An umbilical artery Doppler measures the amount of oxygen in the fetal blood. An amniotic fluid analysis measures the acidity of the amniotic fluid, which can indicate a lack of oxygen. An ultrasound examination can also be used to check for signs of fetal hypoxia, such as decreased fetal movement.
Treatment for Fetal Hypoxia
If fetal hypoxia is detected, the doctor may recommend oxygen therapy, which involves delivering oxygen directly to the baby through the umbilical cord. This can help to improve the baby's oxygen levels and restore normal fetal movement and heart rate. In some cases, the doctor may also recommend medications or surgery to correct any underlying causes of the oxygen deprivation.
Fetal hypoxia is a serious condition that can have long-term consequences for a newborn. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of fetal hypoxia in order to diagnose and treat the condition early. If you have any concerns about your baby's health, it is important to speak to your doctor right away.
