children s health issues
Postterm Newborns
Treatment of Postterm Newborns
Treatment of complications If a pregnancy goes beyond term, inducing labor in the mother can decrease the risk of newborn death, decrease the need for Cesarean Delivery (C-section), and decrease the possibility that the newborn will have meconium aspiration syndrome. Postterm newborns who have low oxygen levels and fetal distress may need to be urgently delivered by C-section and may need to be revived (resuscitated) at birth. If the baby has breathed meconium into the lungs or is having trouble breathing because of another problem, doctors may give an injection of Underdeveloped lungs (a material that coats the inside of the air sacs and makes it easy to breathe). A machine that helps air get in and out of the lungs ( Sugar (glucose) solutions given by vein (intravenously) or frequent breast milk/formula feedings are given to prevent or treat hypoglycemia. If complications do not occur, the major goal is to provide good nutrition so that postterm newborns can catch up to the weight that is appropriate for them. 