Meconium In Newborn Babies
Meconium in newborn babies is also called baby beak and is simply the baby’s first stool after it is born. Barnbecket usually comes out within 48 hours. The substance consists of epithelial cells from the intestines, water, lanugo, amniotic fluid and bile. It has a thick and sticky texture, and is dark green in color.
Excretion of meconium in amniotic fluid
While your baby is still in the womb, he or she inhales amniotic fluid. All components that flow in this fluid accumulate in the intestines of the fetus and thus eventually form meconium. It is a completely normal, natural process and therefore nothing to worry about. Meconium is the excretion of waste that the baby’s body no longer needs.
If the birth does not take place quickly after this , meconium can reach the baby’s lungs. This medical complication is known as meconium aspiration (MAS).
Meconium aspiration
Meconium aspiration (MAS) occurs in severe respiratory distress. It is when a baby inhales meconium that has dissolved in the amniotic fluid, and this then reaches the baby’s lungs. The effect on the baby will depend on the amount and consistency the baby has inhaled.
Some of the most common causes of meconium aspiration:
- Preeklampsi
- Smoking
- Breaks in the placenta
- A delay in fetal growth
- Prolapse of the umbilical cord
- Problems with the respiratory system of the mother
- Heart problems in the mother
- Amniotic fluid inflammation (an infection of the amniotic fluid)
- Lack of amniotic fluid
- Placenta discharge
- Contingency (that the child is born long after the estimated date)
It can be difficult to prevent meconium aspiration. In fact, the only way is to avoid unhealthy habits, such as smoking and alcohol. It is also important to follow the advice of healthcare professionals throughout pregnancy.
To reduce the effects of this acute situation , treatment must be started immediately when the baby is born. This is the only way to avoid complications that can lead to pulmonary hypertension and brain damage in the baby.
Meconium in babies – timing is important
Premature secretion of meconium is a problem. It occurs when the baby is still attached to the placenta and secretes meconium. But at the same time, delayed secretion of meconium after the baby is born is also something that requires attention.
Studies have shown that a delay in the baby’s first stool is related to diseases such as cystic fibrosis or a perforation of the intestines. Therefore, all babies should have a bowel movement within 48 hours of birth, otherwise the parents must contact a doctor immediately.
How to get rid of meconium
Getting rid of meconium requires a little more than washing off normal baby poop. Because it is so sticky, it sticks to the baby’s skin, and can be difficult to wipe off. However, there is no need to panic.
Just be careful and take it easy when you are going to remove all the meconium. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Carefully remove the diaper. To avoid soiling the baby’s back, you can gently hold the legs and lift a little. Then pull the diaper out from under the baby.
- After removing the diaper , wash the baby with lukewarm water from the waist down. By doing this, you get rid of most of the baby beak without having to rub frantically.
- Wipe with wet wipes or washcloths. Be very careful and do not stress. Be careful not to rub too much, as it may irritate the baby’s delicate skin.
- Remember to always wipe the baby from front to back. Never wipe from back to front, as this may lead to an infection.
- If a little meconium is stuck on the baby’s skin, you can simply leave it that way. The baby’s skin is much more damaged by all the rubbing than by a little meconium.
Meconium can be unpleasant to look at and difficult to get rid of. But it is a clear sign that the little newborn’s intestines are working properly!
