Fetal failure in labor: What you need to know

The article was professionally consulted by Specialist Doctor Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital. The doctor has many years of experience in the field of obstetrics and gynecology.

Fetal failure in labor is an acute condition that threatens the life of both mother and baby. It is one of the three most common causes of death at birth. Pregnant women need periodic antenatal check-ups to detect fetal distress during labor and take timely measures.

Fetal failure in labor usually accounts for 5-10% of labor cases. This is a state of hypoxia while the fetus is in the uterus, leading to redistribution of stored oxygen and causes metabolic acidosis. Fetal failure in labor not only leaves many sequelae for the child's later psychomotor and motor development, but also directly threatens the life of mother and baby during childbirth.

There are many causes that can lead to fetal distress in utero, including:
Uterine contractions Protracted labor Causes from the fetus: due to premature birth, old age, malnutrition or multiple pregnancy... Due to the mother's disease: the mother has high blood pressure, anemia,... Due to abnormalities in the placenta, umbilical cord: prolapsed umbilical cord, twisted umbilical cord, placenta previa, .. Using pain relievers, reducing muscle contractions in the last stage of labor Complications due to regional anesthesia at birth.

The measure to prevent fetal distress in labor is to treat chronic diseases in the mother before pregnancy. Pregnant women need periodic antenatal check-ups, about 6-8 times during pregnancy to promptly detect abnormalities and treat appropriately. Mothers need to supplement with essential nutrients, vitamins and trace elements during pregnancy to avoid malnutrition. Mothers also need to practice gentle sports to prepare for labor. When detecting abnormal signs such as low fetal movement, non-moving fetus, uterine contractions, bleeding, vaginal discharge... pregnant women need to see a doctor immediately Do not use drugs indiscriminately , stay away from alcohol, beer and tobacco during pregnancy At Vinmec International General Hospital, pregnant women will be examined and consulted carefully to detect early warning signs of fetal distress in the uterus. During labor, pregnant women will be monitored and cared for according to standard procedures and protocols, especially relatives will be allowed to enter the delivery room to accompany the mother. In addition, the clinic and delivery room are always fully equipped with fetal heart monitors and have an oxygen system available to immediately supply to the mother when needed.