Abstract
Aim The aim is to determine the frequency of meconium-stained births, demonstrate the prognosis by identifying the morbidities of babies born with meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF).
Material and Method Babies born with MSAF at our hospital between January 2022 - July 2023, formed the study group, while term newborns without meconium in the amniotic fluid constituted the control group. The randomization was performed. The features, clinical courses, and developed morbidities of infants were retrospectively examined.
Results There were 237 babies in the both study and control group. Meconium-stained births occurred at a rate of 7.3%, and meconium aspiration syndrome was observed at a rate of 1.48%. In the study group, 172 infants (72.6%) were delivered through normal spontaneous vaginal delivery (NSVD), 65 infants (27.4%) were delivered by cesarean section. It was observed that meconium- stained infants had higher rate of NSVD. The mean gestational age of meconium-stained infants was found to be higher. About 8.02% of the study group, required resuscitation in the delivery room, and their average of APGAR scores were lower. 40.35% of meconium- stained infants were admitted to our neonatal intensive care unit, admission rates were found higher. 4.64% of meconium-stained infants received a diagnosis of asphyxia, and the presence of asphyxia was statistically higher. Respiratory support was provided to 20.68% of study group, and these infants experienced more respiratory distress. Analysis of umbilical cord blood gases revealed significantly lower mean values of pH, bicarbonate, and base deficit in meconium-stained infants, while the mean values of pCO2 and lactate were significantly higher.
Conclusions Meconium-stained infants experienced more respiratory distress, a higher rate of hospitalization, a greater need for resuscitation, and a higher incidence of asphyxia. Being aware of the challenges faced by meconium-stained infants and managing them with a multidisciplinary approach plays a crucial role in reducing morbidity and mortality that may occur.
