Medically Reviewed by Dr Pooja.M.Hiremath, Neonatology
Written by KIE Editorial Contributors
3.5 min read | Published On: 13-10-2025
Some babies have trouble breathing right after birth. One cause is a condition called Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS). This happens when a newborn breathes in a mix of their first stool (meconium) and the fluid that surrounds them in the womb. This mix can get into the baby’s lungs and make it hard for them to breathe. With fast care, most babies get better quickly.
MAS means a baby has breathed in meconium during or before birth. Meconium is the baby’s first stool. It can come out before the baby is born if the baby is stressed or does not get enough oxygen. If the baby takes a breath and meconium is in the fluid, this can cause breathing problems. Some babies only need a little help, but others may need more care.
The main reason is stress during birth or late pregnancy. Here are common causes:
If a baby has low oxygen, they may pass meconium and try to breathe before birth.
Signs show up right when the baby is born. Look for:
Doctors check these signs and act fast if they think it’s MAS.
Doctors can usually tell very soon after birth. They will:
These tests show if the lungs are working well.
Treatment depends on how sick the baby is. The main goal is to help the baby breathe. Doctors may:
Most babies start breathing better after a few days.
Most babies with MAS stay in a special nursery (NICU). They get:
The care team helps the baby get stronger so they can go home.
If MAS is not treated quickly, a baby can develop:
With early care, most babies recover fully and grow up healthy.
Not all cases can be stopped, but parents and doctors can lower the risk by:
Most problems can be managed with good medical care.
Most babies with MAS recover well and do not have long-term issues. Recovery might take days or a few weeks, depending on the case. After leaving the hospital, check-ups help make sure the baby is breathing and growing well. If parents see problems with breathing or feeding, they should tell their doctor.
Get in Touch with a Doctor
Yes. Although it’s more common in post-term babies, Meconium Aspiration Syndrome can also occur in full-term infants if there’s fetal distress or reduced oxygen levels during delivery.
No, MAS is not contagious. It results from inhaling meconium-stained amniotic fluid, not from bacteria or viruses, though infection can sometimes develop as a complication afterward.
Some babies, especially those who had severe MAS, may need follow-up visits to check lung function and development. Most, however, recover fully without lasting breathing problems.
If MAS causes prolonged oxygen deprivation, it can affect brain function temporarily or, in rare cases, lead to long-term developmental issues. Early treatment helps prevent this risk.
The prognosis is generally excellent. With prompt medical care and proper monitoring, most babies recover completely and go on to live healthy, normal lives.
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