Subtitle: Fetal Hypoxia
Fetal hypoxia, also known as fetal oxygen deprivation, is a condition in which the fetus does not receive enough oxygen during pregnancy. The most common cause of fetal hypoxia is placental insufficiency, which occurs when the placenta does not provide enough oxygen to the fetus. Other causes of fetal hypoxia include maternal infections, cord compression, and maternal blood pressure problems.
Placental Insufficiency
Placental insufficiency occurs when the placenta does not provide enough oxygen to the fetus. This can be caused by various factors, including maternal smoking, maternal age, preeclampsia, and preexisting medical conditions. Placental insufficiency can lead to fetal hypoxia, which can lead to fetal growth restriction, preterm labor, and stillbirth.
Maternal Infections
Maternal infections can also cause fetal hypoxia. Examples of infections that can cause fetal hypoxia include toxoplasmosis, rubella, syphilis, and herpes simplex virus (HSV). These infections can be passed from the mother to the baby during pregnancy, and can cause fetal hypoxia if not treated promptly.
Cord Compression
Cord compression is another cause of fetal hypoxia. Cord compression occurs when the umbilical cord gets compressed, reducing the amount of oxygen that is delivered to the baby. This can be caused by the baby’s position in the womb, or by a loop of the umbilical cord around the baby.
Maternal Blood Pressure Problems
Maternal blood pressure problems can also cause fetal hypoxia. High maternal blood pressure can interfere with placental blood flow, reducing oxygen delivery to the baby. Low maternal blood pressure can also interfere with oxygen delivery, as it can reduce the amount of blood reaching the placenta.
