What is a potential consequence for postterm neonates due to placental degeneration?

Postterm neonates are those born after 42 weeks of gestation, and one of the major concerns associated with this condition is placental degeneration. As the placenta ages post-term, it may begin to lose its efficiency in providing essential nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. This decline in placental function can lead to several complications, with perinatal asphyxia being a significant risk.

Perinatal asphyxia refers to a deprivation of oxygen to the fetus or newborn during the period immediately before, during, or after birth. When the placenta is insufficient due to degeneration, it can result in compromised blood flow, leading to decreased oxygen delivery. This critical shortage can cause fetal distress and potentially result in long-term neurological consequences if not addressed promptly. Therefore, the correlation between placental insufficiency due to degeneration and susceptibility to perinatal asphyxia in postterm infants is crucial for understanding this risk.

In contrast, while postterm neonates may face other risks such as jaundice or respiratory issues, these are not directly caused by placental degeneration in the same critical manner as the potential for perinatal asphyxia. Thus, the primary and most concerning consequence linked to placental degeneration in postterm neonates is indeed their increased