Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Aim: To observe the impact of delivery method on the acid-base balance of the umbilical cord arteries in full-term newborns. Materials and Methods: 100 singleton term neonates were divided into two groups: (group I) includes vaginal delivery (NVD) and (group II) non-emergency cesarean section (LSCS) under spinal anesthesia. In both the groups, after fetal birth, umbilical cord blood samples were taken by an obstetrician. The sampling from umbilical artery was provided immediately after birth with clamping of two ends of a segment of the umbilical cord. Umbilical cord blood gas analysis was performed for the umbilical artery and vein. Results: In the present study, a total of 100 infants entered into two groups. With regard to their gender, 58 (58%) and 42(42%) of infants were male and female, respectively. Male were found in majority in both the groups. The mean gestational age and weight in the two groups, NVD and LSCS, were (39.88±1.16weeks, 38.12±0.89 weeks) and (3.31±0.22 Kg., 3.21±0.35kg) respectively, and there was no statistical difference between the two groups. In vaginal delivery and cesarean section delivery newborns, the average umbilical artery pH was 7.32±0.12 and 7.41±0.11, respectively. The mean level of PO2 was 19.15±2.45 in NVD group and 18.11±3.27 in LSCS group. In NVD and LSCS groups, the mean levels of pCO2 were 48.21±2.43 and 43.21±3.44, respectively. Mean level of HCO3 in NVD and LSCS group was 20.44±2.17 and 21.88±1.32, respectively. Conclusion: To accurately assess the prognosis of neonates experiencing stress during delivery, it is advisable to carefully measure the umbilical artery blood pH levels. This should be done for both vaginal births and caesarean sections, particularly in cases of stressful deliveries.