Does the presence of meconium signify fetal distress?
The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid is not necessarily indicative of fetal distress. If meconium is present in the amniotic fluid your doctor will test to make sure that the fetus is not in distress. Your doctor will also check to confirm whether the baby is in a breech presentation, a condition which is often indicated by the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid. If there are signs of distress the baby may score lower on the Apgar scale and be depressed at birth.