Intrapartum maternal glucose infusion and fetal acid–base status

Abstract

Objective To compare the effects of an intrapartum infusion of a lactated Ringer solution or a glucose-boosted saline solution on the acid–base status of umbilical arterial blood. Method In a prospective clinical trial 178 women in labor were randomized to receive intravenously either a lactated Ringer solution or a saline solution boosted with 5% glucose. Umbilical arterial blood was then assessed for acid–base status. Results There were significant differences between the lactated Ringer group and the glucose group in umbilical artery pH values (7.25 ± 0.07 vs. 7.28 ±0.06; P = 0.008), pCO 2 values (44.8 ± 5.6 mm Hg vs. 41.6 ± 4.1 mm Hg; P = 0.001), and base excess (− 7.3 ± 2.1 mEq/L vs. − 6.6 ± 1.8 mEq/L; P = 0.02). Conclusion Intrapartum intravenous fluid containing a 5% glucose solution reduces umbilical cord acidemia and hypercarbia.