Meconium staining is a sign of fetal distress.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not necessarily
• D. Unknown

Answer: (A)

Meconium staining in the amniotic fluid signals fetal distress, typically from hypoxia or significant stress during labor. When a fetus experiences hypoxia, vagal stimulation can trigger the passage of stool into the amniotic fluid, resulting in meconium-stained fluid. This finding is worrisome because meconium in the fluid increases the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome, where the newborn inhales meconium into the lungs, potentially causing airway obstruction and chemical pneumonitis. Because of this risk, the presence of meconium-stained fluid is treated as a sign of fetal compromise and prompts closer fetal monitoring and readiness for neonatal resuscitation at delivery. There are situations, such as certain late-term pregnancies, where meconium can be present without acute distress, but the association with fetal compromise makes it a concerning and commonly referenced sign.