Understanding a newborn’s health status is essential for ensuring a good quality of life in both the short and long term. Because of this, a thorough evaluation during the first hours of life is essential.
Shortly after delivery, assuming there are no complications, newborns are moved to an area where they’ll be identified, given a physical exam, and have their vital functions checked.
Possible Complications in NewbornsSome complications can occur during childbirth in newborns. To confirm that all of the baby’s body systems are functioning properly, tests such as the newborn screening and the Apgar score are used.
Other possible complications include labor failing to progress, issues with the umbilical cord, abnormal fetal heart rate, perinatal asphyxia, excessive bleeding, shoulder dystocia (when the shoulders get stuck during delivery), and premature rupture of membranes. Since these complications can’t always be prevented, the doctor will take the necessary steps to reduce risk for both mother and baby whenever they occur.
What Is Newborn Screening?The newborn metabolic screening test is performed on all newborns and helps detect metabolic disorders.
This test is recommended between the third and fifth day after birth. It’s done by collecting a few drops of blood from the baby’s heel, which are placed on a special card for laboratory analysis.
What Conditions Does Newborn Screening Detect?This test can help detect conditions such as:
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.
- Phenylketonuria (PKU).
- Cystic fibrosis.
- Galactosemia.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
- Congenital hypothyroidism.
What Is the Apgar Score?This test is performed 1 minute and again 5 minutes after birth. The one-minute score assesses how well the baby tolerated the birthing process, while the five-minute score reflects how the baby is adjusting outside the womb.
This exam evaluates breathing effort, heart rate, muscle tone, reflexes, and skin color.
While the test doesn’t directly diagnose specific conditions, it helps identify whether the baby is experiencing breathing or heart-related issues.
ObstetricsObstetrics is an essential area of care during pregnancy, responsible for supporting the mother throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, whether it’s a routine case or one involving complications.
Obstetricians provide comprehensive preparation for motherhood and help ensure the health of both mother and baby. They also perform prenatal checkups and take steps to support healthy reproductive outcomes.
Beyond the physical health of mother and baby, psychological and social well-being are also cared for throughout the maternity period.
At ABC Medical Center’s Obstetrics Center, we can provide you with specialized care for newborns. Contact us!
