A STUDY ON THE RISK FACTORS OF MECONIUM STAINED AMNIOTIC FLUID AND A COMPARISON OF PREGNANCY OUTCOMES IN CLEAR AND MECONIUM STAINED AMNIOTIC FLUID

Abstract

Background: To identify risk factors for meconium stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and
comparison of pregnancy outcome in meconium stained vs. clear amniotic fluid. Methods: The
study was conducted at labor-room of SIMSRH, Karnataka for consecutive 500 singleton
deliveries at term with cephalic presentation. Detection of MSAF during delivery and follow-up
of mother and baby during hospital stay was done. Results: Incidence of MSAF was 30.6% of
which thick meconium was 59.4%. Anemia,<3antenatal check up, parity, dysfunctional or
prolonged labor, use of Oxytocin or prostaglandin, urinary tract infection and antepartum
hemorrhage had no association with MSAF. Fetal distress, cord problems and maternal
hypertension came out as risk factors of MSAF. Thick meconium was significantly associated
with lower Apgarscore, prolonged NICU admission, neonatalsepsis and death. Mothers having
MSAF showed higher rates of instrumental deliveries/cesarean section. Conclusions:
Prevention of fetal distress and maternal hypertension can reduce MSAF to ultimately
minimize cesarean /instrumental delivery and adverse fetal outcome