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Condition

Pediatric Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

Key points about meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS)

  • Meconium aspiration happens when a newborn breathes in a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid.
  • Healthcare providers don’t fully understand why babies release stool before they are born.
  • It is most common in babies born full-term (between 37 to 41 weeks) who are small for gestational age. It is also most common in babies who are born post-term (after 42 weeks).
  • Your healthcare provider will check the amniotic fluid for meconium at the time of birth.
  • Most babies generally get better within a few days.

Appointments

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is meconium aspiration syndrome?

What are causes of meconium aspiration syndrome?

Who is at risk for meconium aspiration syndrome?

What are the symptoms of meconium aspiration syndrome?

How is meconium aspiration syndrome diagnosed?

How is meconium aspiration syndrome treated?

What are possible complications of meconium aspiration syndrome?

How is meconium aspiration syndrome prevented?

Providers Who Treat Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

    Departments that Treat Meconium Aspiration Syndrome

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    Critical Care Medicine

    With the only pediatric, cardiac and neuro-intensive care units in the immediate Washington, D.C., area, Children's National Hospital is the region's leading provider of critical care medicine for seriously ill and injured infants and children.

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    Neonatology

    Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the Children's National Hospital's top-ranked team assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.