Guide To The Causes And Risk Factors Of Periventricular Leukomalacia

Hypotension

An unborn child who's mother experiences hypotension before or during the birthing process may develop periventricular leukomalacia as a complication of the maternal condition. Hypotension is a blood pressure of less than 90/60. Low blood pressure throughout an individual's pregnancy causes reduced blood flow to the unborn child, which results in a reduced amount of oxygen and nutrient delivery. Ischemia-precipitated periventricular leukomalacia can occur in unborn children when the mother experiences hypotension throughout their pregnancy. Hypotension is also a common occurrence when a pregnant woman is in the process of giving birth, which may also cause an unborn child to experience a brain injury. 

Most cases of maternal hypotension during labor are related to the use of spinal anesthesia and the position of the mother when the spinal anesthesia is administered. Hypotension-precipitated periventricular leukomalacia can also occur in the affected individual following their birth. Hypotension is most common in neonates who have a heart infection, sepsis, loss of blood, problems with adrenal glands, patent ductus arteriosus, and abnormal heartbeats. Hypotension can also be caused in a neonate when a ventilator is required because of increased pressure in the chest.