P91: Other disturbances of cerebral status of newborn

P91.4: Neonatal cerebral depression

The brain is made up of several areas. For example, the cerebrum is used to think and plan actions. In the cerebellum, movements are initialized and coordinated. The brain stem is responsible for various unconscious tasks such as breathing. The brain stem passes into the spinal cord.

After the birth there can be various indications that the child’s brain functions are reduced. The baby's muscles may be weak and its muscle tension low, for example. It may also have breathing problems. The baby might be particularly sleepy.

There are many factors that affect the child during pregnancy and birth. So there can be many different reasons why the child’s brain functions are reduced after the birth.