Gastric Acidity in the First Day of Life

Abstract

Elevated pH in the gastric contents of babies immediately after birth suggests the presence of alkaline amniotic fluid in the stomach of the fetus. After the stomach had been lavaged, a strongly acid secretion was immediately noted, implying that the secretory ability of the gastric mucosa is unimpaired immediately after birth. Therefore, no delay in the onset of oral feedings based on poor gastric functioning seems warranted. Infants born by Cesarean section and not subjected to abdominal compression by the birth process had an even more alkaline gastric residuum at birth, suggesting the presence of excessive amniotic fluid in the stomach of these babies. The recommendation that babies' stomachs be emptied immediately after Cesarean section seems justified to avoid an increased hazard from vomiting and aspiration. This has proved an innocuous and beneficial procedure in our hands.