What is a consequence of anaerobic metabolism?

Anaerobic metabolism occurs when cells generate energy without the use of oxygen, leading to the breakdown of glucose to produce ATP in a much less efficient manner compared to aerobic metabolism. One of the primary byproducts of this process is lactic acid, which results from the conversion of pyruvate in conditions where oxygen is limited.

As anaerobic metabolism continues, the accumulation of lactic acid in the blood can lead to lactic acidosis, which can impair normal cellular function and disrupt the body's acid-base balance. This buildup of lactic acid is pivotal, especially in clinical settings where it can indicate inadequate oxygen delivery to tissues and is a significant concern during labor and delivery in obstetrics.

Understanding this is crucial for monitoring fetal well-being and recognizing signs of fetal distress. Therefore, the buildup of lactic acid in the blood is a direct consequence of anaerobic metabolism and reflects the metabolic state of the tissues under hypoxic conditions.