Study on Correlation of Umbilical Cord Arterial Blood pH with Perinatal Asphyxia and Early Neonatal Outcome

Background: Perinatal asphyxia is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Umbilical cord arterialblood pH is a key marker for assessing asphyxia severity and its impact on neonatal outcomes, particularlyhypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).Objectives: To investigate the correlation between umbilical cord arterial blood pH and perinatal asphyxia,focusing on its relationship with early neonatal outcomes, including HIE and the need for resuscitation.Methods: This cross-sectional study at GMC Kota included 131 neonates with suspected perinatal asphyxia.Umbilical cord pH and neonatal outcomes, including HIE, were analyzed. Statistical analysis was performedusing SPSS 24.0, with p<0.05 considered significant.Results: Among 131 neonates, 67.2% were born at 37-39 weeks. Pregnancy-induced hypertension was the mostcommon risk factor. APGAR scores improved significantly over time. The mean umbilical cord pH was 6.9,indicating acidosis, and 39.7% of neonates had grade 3 HIE. No significant correlation was found betweenmeconium-stained liquor and perinatal asphyxia (p=0.745).Conclusion: Umbilical cord pH is a critical marker for perinatal asphyxia and its associated outcomes,including severe HIE. The lack of correlation between meconium-stained liquor and asphyxia warrants furtherinvestigation