The nature of neonatal asphyxia is hypoxia and its occurrence is usually related to a variety of factors including the mother, the foetus itself, the placenta and the delivery process. If the mother has a chronic or serious underlying illness, such as severe anaemia or congenital heart disease; if the mother is ≥35 years old or <16 years old; if she has multiple pregnancies; if she has placenta praevia, placenta abruptio, placental ageing, intrauterine infection, prolapse of the umbilical cord, or encirclement of the neck during pregnancy; if the baby is premature, huge or has congenital malformations; if cephalopelvic disproportion, weak contractions or inappropriate use of drugs during labour are found during labour. The use of inappropriate medication during labour can cause asphyxia in newborns after birth.