Question
A mother gave birth to a larger-than-average male baby via cesarean section after being overdue by one month, but the baby’s health condition was not ideal. The doctor pointed out that although overdue babies are larger in size, they may face a series of health issues. What specific health risks may be associated with overdue babies?
Answer
The main clinical problems faced by overdue babies include placental insufficiency syndrome, placental degeneration, multiple infarctions, and villous regression. Due to placental insufficiency, overdue babies may experience asphyxia during delivery. Additionally, meconium aspiration syndrome is particularly severe for overdue babies because of reduced amniotic fluid, leading to undiluted meconium intake. Insufficient glycogen storage at birth may result in neonatal hypoglycemia.