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Questions and Answers

Q. I would like to know if you can give me any information regarding low apgar scores. What risks are there to our child, and what are the odds of future medical and mental problems? He had an APGAR score of 1 at birth, and 3 at 5 minutes. He is nearly 3 months old, and at this point there is no evidence of any problems.

Thank you very much for your time.

Laura

A. Laura,

APGAR scores are not meant to be reflective of development later in life. However, what may cause problems would be the reason he had low APGAR scores. Generally speaking, however, there are very few long term problems. The best place to find out about your child's prognosis is your child's doctor. I am sure that they will reassure you that your child will not suffer any long term effects.

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.