What Are the Signs of Fetal Acidosis?

Last Updated on January 15, 2025 by Michelle Wan

Fetal acidosis is a serious condition that occurs when a baby’s blood becomes too acidic due to inadequate oxygen levels during pregnancy or childbirth. This imbalance can result in significant complications, including brain injury, developmental delays, or even stillbirth if not promptly addressed. Recognizing the signs of fetal acidosis early is crucial for healthcare providers to take appropriate action and ensure a safe delivery.

This article explores the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic methods for fetal acidosis, empowering families with the knowledge needed to understand this condition.

What Is Fetal Acidosis?

Fetal acidosis occurs when there is a buildup of acid in a baby’s blood due to insufficient oxygen. This can happen during labor and delivery when complications restrict blood flow to the baby, reducing oxygen levels and leading to a dangerous buildup of carbon dioxide and hydrogen ions. The condition is often linked to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a type of brain injury caused by oxygen deprivation.

What Causes Fetal Acidosis?

Fetal acidosis can result from a variety of complications during pregnancy or delivery, including:

Umbilical Cord Problems

• Prolapse, compression, or nuchal cord (cord wrapped around the baby’s neck) can restrict oxygen flow.

Placental Issues

• Conditions like placental abruption or insufficiency can impair oxygen delivery to the baby.

Prolonged Labor

• Prolonged or difficult labor can cause stress and oxygen deprivation.

Maternal Conditions

• Gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or infections can increase the risk of acidosis.

Delayed Delivery

• Waiting too long to perform an emergency cesarean section can result in oxygen deprivation.

Signs of Fetal Acidosis

Fetal acidosis is typically detected through a combination of maternal symptoms, fetal monitoring, and diagnostic tests. Below are the key signs:

Abnormal Fetal Heart Rate (FHR)

Fetal heart rate monitoring is one of the primary tools used to detect acidosis. Signs include:

• Bradycardia: A slower-than-normal heart rate.
• Tachycardia: An abnormally fast heart rate.
• Late Decelerations: The baby’s heart rate drops after contractions instead of during them, indicating stress or oxygen deprivation.

Reduced Fetal Movement

• A decrease in fetal movement may indicate that the baby is not receiving adequate oxygen. This can be an early warning sign of acidosis.

Abnormal Amniotic Fluid

• Meconium-Stained Fluid: The presence of the baby’s first stool (meconium) in the amniotic fluid can signal fetal distress and potential acidosis.
• Low Fluid Levels (Oligohydramnios): Reduced amniotic fluid can compromise oxygen supply to the baby.

Maternal Symptoms

• Maternal symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, uterine hyperstimulation, or abnormal vaginal bleeding may indicate complications leading to acidosis.

Abnormal pH Levels in Umbilical Cord Blood

• An umbilical cord blood sample showing a pH level below 7.2 is indicative of acidosis.

Diagnostic Tests for Fetal Acidosis

Healthcare providers use several diagnostic tools to confirm fetal acidosis and determine its severity:

Fetal Scalp Blood Sampling

• A small blood sample from the baby’s scalp is tested for pH levels during labor. Low pH levels (below 7.2) indicate acidosis.

Lactate Levels

• Elevated lactate levels in fetal blood suggest a buildup of acid due to oxygen deprivation.

Continuous Fetal Monitoring

• Electronic fetal monitoring tracks the baby’s heart rate and patterns, providing real-time data on distress.

Biophysical Profile (BPP)

• This ultrasound-based test evaluates fetal well-being, including movement, tone, breathing, and amniotic fluid levels.

Consequences of Untreated Fetal Acidosis

If fetal acidosis is not promptly addressed, it can lead to serious complications, including:

• Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE): A brain injury caused by prolonged oxygen deprivation.
• Cerebral Palsy: Long-term motor impairments due to brain damage.
• Developmental Delays: Cognitive and physical challenges stemming from oxygen-related injuries.
• Stillbirth: In severe cases, untreated acidosis can result in fetal death.

How Is Fetal Acidosis Treated?

The treatment for fetal acidosis depends on the timing and severity of the condition:

Oxygen Therapy for the Mother

• Providing supplemental oxygen to the mother can improve oxygen flow to the baby.

Amnioinfusion

• A saline or fluid solution is introduced into the amniotic sac to relieve pressure on the umbilical cord and improve oxygen flow.

Emergency Cesarean Section

• If fetal distress persists, a cesarean section may be performed to deliver the baby quickly and prevent further complications.

Post-Birth Interventions

• Babies diagnosed with acidosis may require therapeutic hypothermia (cooling therapy) to reduce brain swelling and prevent further damage.

When Is Medical Negligence a Factor?

In some cases, fetal acidosis results from preventable errors or delays in care. Hospitals and healthcare providers may be held liable if they:

• Fail to monitor fetal heart rate effectively.
• Delay necessary interventions such as cesarean delivery.
• Misuse tools like vacuum extractors or forceps.
• Neglect maternal risk factors that increase the likelihood of acidosis.

Families affected by medical negligence may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, long-term care, and emotional distress.

How Thomas & Wan LLP Can Help

At Thomas & Wan LLP, we specialize in helping families affected by birth injuries, including cases of fetal acidosis caused by medical negligence. With decades of experience, we offer:

• Free Case Evaluations: Understand your legal options at no cost.
• Thorough Investigations: Work with medical experts to uncover the causes of your child’s condition.
• Compassionate Support: Guide you through the legal process while fighting for the compensation your family deserves.

Fetal acidosis is a serious condition that requires timely recognition and intervention to prevent long-term complications. Understanding the signs of fetal acidosis, such as abnormal fetal heart rates, reduced movement, and low blood pH levels, empowers families to seek prompt care and advocate for the best outcomes.

If you suspect that medical negligence contributed to fetal acidosis or a related birth injury, contact Thomas & Wan LLP today for a free consultation. Let us help you secure justice and the resources your family needs for your child’s future care.