Meconium is the baby’s first stool, which has a dark, greenish, thick, viscous color.Elimination of the first fecal matter is a good indication that the baby’s intestine is working properly, however when the baby is born after 40 weeks of gestation, there is a high risk of meconium aspiration, which can cause serious problems.
Meconium is eliminated within 24 hours of birth due to stimulation of first lactation; after 3 to 4 days you may notice a change in the color and consistency of the stool, indicating that the intestine is able to perform its function correctly.it is not removed within 24 hours, this may be a sign of intestinal obstruction or paralysis, and more tests should be done to confirm the diagnosis.
- Fetal suffering occurs when meconium is removed before delivery to amniotic fluid.
- Which usually occurs due to changes in the baby’s oxygen supply through the placenta or complications in the umbilical cord.
The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid and the baby’s non-birth can cause the baby to suck out the fluid, which is extremely toxic.fluid that allows the exchange of gases in the lungs, which can cause inflammation of the airways and, consequently, shortness of breath.If the baby is not breathing, there is a lack of oxygen in the brain, which can cause irreversible damage.
Immediately after birth, if it is perceived that the baby cannot breathe alone, doctors remove secretions from the mouth, nose and lungs and administer a surfactant to increase the pulmonary alveoli and allow gas to exchange; However, if there is brain damage due to meconium inhalation, the diagnosis is made only after a certain period of time.Find out what lung surfactant is and how it works.