Intrapartum asphyxia can be determined by:

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract–Based NCC C-EFM References:

NCC emphasizes that only objective acid-base assessment can diagnose intrapartum asphyxia. This is accomplished with cord arterial blood gas analysis showing:

pH < 7.0–7.1

Base deficit ≥ 12 mmol/L

Elevated PCO₂

FHR patterns suggest risk, but do not diagnose asphyxia.

Apgar scores, especially at 1 minute, do not correlate reliably with acidemia.

Thus, cord gas analysis is the correct determinant.