[Elective caesarean: impact of evolution neonatal respiration]

The number of Caesarean births has increased worldwide. Respiratory distress syndrome is associated with caesarean delivery, especially in the absence of labor. During the latter stages of pregnancy physiologic changes occur that are accelerated with the onset of labor, which is accompanied by changes in hormones and mediators in the mother and fetus. An acceleration in the evacuation of lung liquid is held in this period, largely dependent sodium channels sensitive to amiloride than are found in the alveolar epithelium. The failure of these mechanisms can lead to newborn severe respiratory difficulty and require intensive care, mechanical ventilation and surfactant. We need to develop preventive and therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes in this vulnerable population.