Seeking Advice from Mom's W/ Similiar Experience

The chance of the baby passing meconium is extremely low. I am a former NICU Respiratory Therapist. Tyically meconium is seen in much older babies. It usually occurs during active labor and is a sign that the baby had a moment of distress. If your baby did pass meconium you would know because of the smell and color. It looks dark green. Your body also continues to produce amniotic fluid. Also, your risk of infection is extremely low as long as no one is putting anything in your vagina, and this includes vaginal exams.

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I think you are confused. YOU do not pass on meconium in your blood. It is the term for a child having a bowel movement while in the uterus. It is not something you should worry about because (a) it is pretty rare and (b) there is absolutely nothing you can do to make it happen or prevent it. That being said, my daughter passed some at some point (probably while I was in labor) and was fine! It did not affect her at all. Basically, since they knew it happened, they just made sure to suction her nose and lungs very well before she took her first breath. You just try to relax and not stress over the stuff you cannot change or prevent. Good luck to you and your little one!

I've had one child who passed meconium before birth. She was born at 39 weeks, six days... the day before her due date. I don't think it's something that happens so early. Honestly hon, you have so much else to think of, I'd let this one go if you can.

Hugs,

S.

my oldest (of 3) passed meconium during active labor. He was one week overdue & was ready to emerge! Not an issue with the other two .

Relax, pump the fluids....& let the medical staff do their job!

I wish you a safe & peaceful delivery.....

I'm sure you have heard all the scary stories from the doctors about what might happen, and so did I. We didn't have this particular concern, so I can't say much about the meconium. But, I am now the proud mommy of a perfect 6 year old who was born at 26 weeks. Just try to take a deep breath.
All the best!

I do not have a medical background, but I was thinking that a baby that poops in utero must be much further along than that, because you don't hear about it happening except at the very end. I jsut figured if they were developed enough to poop, they were probably far enough along to be delivered. But Momof3girls would know better than me :-)

Your doctor is checking for everything. This is for him/her to worry about, not you. Your job is to relax and take it easy. Eat, drink, watch tv, read a book, try not to lose your mind! But it is not your job to be doing anything else. Trust the nurses and doctors at the hospital. They will take good care of you and your baby.