What does hypoxemia refer to?

Hypoxemia refers specifically to a decreased level of oxygen in the blood. This condition can have significant implications for fetal health, as adequate oxygenation is crucial for normal development and functioning. In situations where hypoxemia occurs, the body may struggle to deliver sufficient oxygen to vital organs and tissues, potentially leading to consequences such as growth restrictions, neurological impairment, or other serious health issues.

In contrast, the other options describe different physiological states or outcomes that do not accurately define hypoxemia. Increased carbon dioxide levels pertain to a separate condition, normally referred to as hypercapnia, while normal oxygen levels indicate adequate oxygenation, which is the opposite of hypoxemia. Similarly, increased oxygen delivery to tissue is a desired outcome in healthy states rather than a definition of decreased oxygen content in the blood. Thus, understanding hypoxemia's specific definition is critical for recognizing its impact on both maternal and fetal health.