Umbilical arterial blood lactate as predictor of early neonatal outcome and evaluation of intrapartum asphyxia.

Background: Perinatal asphyxia is a leading cause of under-5 mortality and exerts great pressure on the health system. Adequate foetal monitoring in labour is paramount in the early detection of foetal distress to prevent perinatal asphyxia. Several methods of foetal monitoring are in use with varying efficacy.