Is a child born with PDA?

Is a child born with PDA?

Yes, every baby is actually born with a ductus arteriosus, which is a temporary blood vessel connecting two major arteries near the heart. While a baby is growing in the womb, this vessel is essential because it allows blood to bypass the lungs, since the baby gets oxygen directly from the mother.

Right after birth, everything changes. When a newborn takes their first breaths and starts breathing air on their own, the body senses the shift in oxygen levels. This triggers the vessel to naturally begin shrinking and closing up, usually within the first few days of life.

However, in some cases—especially in premature babies—this tiny pathway fails to close properly. When it stays open, it is diagnosed as patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). A persistent PDA can sometimes cause too much blood to rush into the lungs, making the heart and lungs work harder than normal. While many small ones close on their own later or cause no trouble at all, doctors keep a close eye on infants to ensure their heart health remains on track.