What Parents Need to Know About Birth Asphyxia

Learn what parents need to know about birth asphyxia and its serious effects on newborns. Recognize the signs for timely care.

What Parents Need to Know About Birth Asphyxia

It is important for parents to know and understand birth asphyxia because it can affect a newborn’s health right from the start of life. Birth asphyxia happens when a baby does not get enough oxygen before, during, or just after birth. Without oxygen, important organs like the brain can be damaged.

This condition can cause serious health problems if not treated quickly and properly. In this blog post, you will learn about the causes of birth asphyxia, signs to watch for, treatment options, and what to expect in the long term.

The Causes of Birth Asphyxia

Some of the very common causes of birth asphyxia include problems with the umbilical cord, like knots or compression that block oxygen to the baby. Issues with the uterus, such as uterine rupture, can also cause oxygen loss. Placental problems, such as the placenta separating too soon, increase the risk.

Maternal factors like low oxygen levels, bleeding, infection, or heart and breathing issues also affect oxygen supply to the baby during birth. Difficult or prolonged labor may contribute as well.

The Symptoms of Birth Asphyxia to Look Out For

There are some symptoms that parents can look for in infants after birth that suggest asphyxia.

• Not breathing or breathing very weakly
• Bluish or pale skin color
• Low heart rate
• Weak muscle tone (baby may seem floppy)
• Poor or absent reflexes
• Weak or no cry
• Seizures
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness
• Difficulty feeding or sucking
• Abnormal breathing patterns or gasping

How Is Birth Asphyxia Diagnosed?

Doctors can diagnose birth asphyxia by checking the baby’s vital signs right after birth. They look at the baby’s heart rate, breathing, and muscle tone. Blood tests are done to measure oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and to check the pH, which shows if the baby’s blood is too acidic.

Doctors also use an Apgar score to assess the baby’s condition at 1 and 5 minutes after birth. Sometimes imaging tests, like an MRI, may be used later to check for brain injury, and continuous monitoring helps guide treatment decisions.

Treatments Available for Birth Asphyxia

Here are some common treatments that often start right after birth to improve the baby’s chances of recovery:

• Therapeutic Hypothermia: Cooling the baby’s body to 33.5°C for 72 hours helps protect the brain from further damage.
• Breathing Support: Machines like ventilators help the baby breathe if they cannot do it on their own.
• Resuscitation: Immediate chest compressions and ventilation restore heartbeat and breathing after birth if needed.
• Medication: Some potent drugs control seizures, support blood pressure, and treat other complications caused by oxygen loss.
• Fluid and Nutrition: IV fluids and feeding support keep the baby hydrated and nourished during treatment and recovery.

What Should Parents Do If Their Baby Suffers from Birth Asphyxia?

It can be tough for parents when they know their baby has birth asphyxia. Here are some tips for parents to deal with the situation.

• First, follow all medical advice and keep all follow-up appointments.
• Ensure the baby gets regular check-ups to monitor growth and development.
• Watch for any changes in behavior or health and report them to the doctor.
• Seek support from healthcare teams like therapists and counselors if recommended.
• Connect with parent support groups to share experiences and get help.
• Learn about early intervention programs that can improve outcomes.
• Keep yourself informed, but avoid unnecessary stress.
• Caring for your baby with patience and support is important for their recovery.​

If the condition was caused by the negligence of the medical personnel, parents can look at what legal measures they can take. It is best to talk to a local birth injury lawyer to guide you through the process.

Conclusion

• Birth asphyxia is a serious condition that can affect a baby’s health and development.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are important for improving outcomes.
• Some babies recover fully, but others may face long-term challenges like developmental delays or neurological issues.
• Parents should follow medical advice, attend all follow-ups, and watch their baby’s progress carefully.
• Talk to a lawyer if you think that the birth injury was caused by medical negligence.