How Too Much Amniotic Fluid Is Linked to an Increased Risk of Stillbirth

Amniotic fluid polyhydramnios stillbirth Down Syndrome Edward's Syndrome Severe polyhydramnios Mild polyhydramnios

By Camille Hutchison , Parent Herald Oct 15, 08:58 pm

Amniotic fluid plays a vital role in the development of the unborn baby as it cushions and protects the fetus from any external pressures, blows, and harm. It also regulates the body temperature which helps to maintain the status quo and amniotic fluid that helps with the development of the unborn infant's lungs, muscles, bones, and digestive cases.

Mostly, it poses no threat but in rare cases, amniotic fluid can appear problematic specifically when one has too much or too little. As a result of an excessive amount of amniotic fluid, polyhydramnios occurs; Polyhydramnios happens approximately in 1 percent of pregnancies. Individuals who are diagnosed with the said condition have more than 25 centimeters of amniotic fluid.

The normal range of amniotic fluids is only between 5 and 24 centimeters or around 800 to 1000 ml. However, the range also depends on how far along an individual is as the fluid levels increase as the pregnancy progresses; As a matter of fact, amniotic fluid is associated with an increased risk of stillbirth in pregnancies which entails normal amniotic fluid levels, 2 out of 1,000 are stillborn and 4 out of 1,000 are with polyhydramnios.

Another possible complication is early labor

Amniotic fluid is the clear liquid that fully surrounds the baby in the uterus during the pregnancy. It gives the baby room for growth, movement, and development and also keeps the umbilical cord from being squeezed between the infant and the wall of the uterus. Furthermore, the amount of amniotic fluid also reflects the urine output or a measure of a baby's well-being.

Usually, women with such conditions do not have any significant issues during their pregnancy and will have a healthy baby. However, there is still a slightly increased risk of pregnancy and birth complications such as prematurely giving birth, before 37 weeks, or waters breaking early; This condition is more serious if it happens early in pregnancy as the amniotic fluid has more time to continue to build up.

They may also experience difficulties breathing and other issues during delivery. Such a condition can also cause complications for the fetus which entails anatomical problems, malposition, and, in severe cases, death. Moreover, too much Amniotic Fluid is also associated with different genetic disorders including Down syndrome and Edward's syndrome.
Birth defects particularly the unborn baby's ability to swallow and/or impacting kidney function is characterized by too much amniotic fluid, Parents reported.

Signs of too much amniotic fluid

If diagnosed with polyhydramnios, a healthcare provider will thoroughly monitor the pregnancy to help prevent complications. The treatment, however, depends on the severity of the condition. Mild polyhydramnios will most likely go away on their own while severe ones may require closer monitoring.

It might also make your baby larger than average. The common signs if you have too much amniotic fluid is the shortness of breath, uterine contractions, fetal malposition, and swelling in both lower extremities and abdominal wall; Some cases may increase the chance of needing a c-section or cesarean delivery. According to American Pregnancy, the doctor will probably ask you to come in for extra checkups and ensure that the condition won't be severe.