The fetus in a pregnant mother's womb is surrounded by amniotic fluid, which contains the baby's meconium. Although babies absorb nutrients directly through the umbilical cord and placenta to sustain their lives, there are also some situations. Babies can swallow amniotic fluid to the point where they inhale meconium. So, can meconium be absorbed by the fetus? What are the hazards for babies if they inhale meconium?
Can meconium be absorbed by the fetus
Fetuses cannot absorb meconium. Inhaling meconium in babies can cause lung infections, and in severe cases, it can also lead to lung lesions, directly affecting the defense and respiratory functions of the lungs. So, regular prenatal check ups are essential during pregnancy to ensure the health and safety of the fetus by knowing if they have inhaled meconium.
Causes of meconium production
1. Oligohydramnios
When there is insufficient amniotic fluid, the baby in the abdomen will experience hypoxia. If the baby in the abdomen lacks oxygen, it will accelerate the baby's intestinal peristalsis, leading to a decrease in control and the excretion of meconium into amniotic fluid. So pregnant mothers should replenish more water during pregnancy.
2. Cases of placental insufficiency
Babies directly absorb nutrients from the mother's body through the placenta and umbilical cord. Therefore, if the placenta is not fully functional, it is easy to cause meconium contamination of amniotic fluid. So pregnant mothers should have regular prenatal check ups.
3. During childbirth, the baby lacks oxygen
When a baby is born, if there is a lack of oxygen, they will become abnormally excited and produce meconium. So pregnant mothers must have a regular diet, exercise more, and ensure a smooth delivery when approaching childbirth.
