During prolonged labor, the fetus is at risk for which of the following?

Prolonged labor can lead to several complications for the fetus, with asphyxia being one of the most significant risks. As labor extends beyond the typical duration, several factors can contribute to fetal distress, including insufficient oxygenation due to uterine contractions or a compromised placenta. This distress can lead to an inadequate blood supply to the fetus, which, if not addressed, may result in asphyxia.

This condition may manifest as changes in fetal heart rate patterns, such as variable or late decelerations, which indicate that the fetus is not receiving enough oxygen during labor. Asphyxia can result in serious consequences, including neurological damage or even fetal death if not promptly recognized and managed.

While other options may relate to complications of labor, they do not directly address the specific risk associated with prolonged labor as asphyxia does. For example, breech presentation typically occurs before labor and is not a direct consequence of prolonged labor. Hemorrhage, while a significant concern, usually pertains more to maternal health rather than directly impacting the fetus during labor. Meconium aspiration syndrome, though a potential outcome of fetal distress, is not as immediate or directly linked to the duration of labor as the risk of asphyxia.