What substance can cause breathing problems in a newborn if the neonate aspirates it during labor?
a. colostrum
b. meconium
c. vernix
d. lochia

Meconium is the sticky, dark green substance that forms the first stool of a newborn and can pose serious risks if aspirated during labor. When a baby inhales meconium-stained amniotic fluid, it can lead to a condition called meconium aspiration syndrome, which can cause breathing difficulties and lung complications.

While colostrum and vernix are natural components of the birth process, they do not generally pose the same risks as meconium. Lochia, on the other hand, is postpartum vaginal discharge and has no relevance to newborn aspiration risks. It’s essential for healthcare providers to monitor meconium-stained amniotic fluid to ensure the safety of the newborn during delivery.