HIE occurs when a newborn's brain fails to receive a sufficient amount of oxygen and blood during birth, leading to severe and often permanent brain damage.
Understanding Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy is a condition characterized by a lack of oxygen and blood flow to an infant's brain during labor and delivery. This deprivation of oxygen can result from various complications, including:
- Umbilical Cord Issues: A tangled or compressed umbilical cord can restrict oxygen and blood flow to the baby.
- Placental Abruption: The separation of the uterine wall and the placenta, which can disrupt the baby's oxygen supply.
- Prolonged Labor: When labor is excessively long, it can put stress on the baby, leading to oxygen deprivation.
- Uterine Rupture: In rare cases, the uterus can rupture during labor, causing life-threatening oxygen loss.
- Inadequate Fetal Monitoring: Failure to closely monitor the baby's heart rate and other vital signs can result in a delayed response to distress.