Name of the Condition

• Meconium passage during delivery
• Other terms: Meconium-stained fluid, Meconium-stained amniotic fluid during labor

Summary

Meconium passage during delivery refers to the presence of meconium, a newborn's first stool, in the amniotic fluid during labor. This can indicate fetal distress and requires careful monitoring and management to prevent complications.

Causes

• Typically associated with fetal distress.
• It can occur due to prolonged pregnancy, maternal health issues, or umbilical cord complications.

Risk Factors

• Post-term pregnancy (over 40 weeks).
• Maternal hypertension or diabetes.
• History of meconium passage in previous pregnancies.

Symptoms

• Detection usually relies on observation of meconium in the amniotic fluid during labor.

Diagnosis

• Observation of meconium-stained amniotic fluid upon rupture of membranes.
• In some cases, electronic fetal monitoring may identify associated fetal distress.

Treatment Options

• Immediate suctioning of the infant’s airways post-delivery to prevent meconium aspiration.
• Continuous fetal monitoring.
• Potential induction of labor or emergency delivery if fetal distress is detected.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Generally good if managed appropriately.
• Infants exposed to meconium-stained fluid should be monitored closely for respiratory issues.

Complications

• Meconium aspiration syndrome, which can lead to respiratory distress in the newborn.
• In severe cases, pneumonia or other respiratory complications.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular prenatal care to monitor fetal well-being and identify risk factors early.
• Management of maternal health conditions to reduce risk.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is necessary if there is a detection of meconium-stained amniotic fluid during labor.

Additional Resources

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
• March of Dimes

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure proper documentation of the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid.
• Avoid confusing with similar conditions like prelabor rupture of membranes without meconium.