Everything You Need to Know About Polyhydramnios

Too much amniotic fluid in the womb creates a condition known as polyhydramnios, a situation that raises questions and sparks concern for expectant families. The uterus stretches beyond normal limits, and discomfort often grows alongside uncertainty. 

Many mothers experience rapid belly growth, breathing difficulty, and premature contractions, all while doctors rush to manage the balance between the mother’s and the baby’s safety. In severe cases, birth injuries emerge, prompting families to seek legal help for polyhydramnios-related injuries when they feel care fell short. 

In this post, you’ll discover what causes polyhydramnios, the signs that signal its presence, and the potential risks it brings to both mother and baby. You’ll also learn how doctors diagnose and manage the condition to protect pregnancy outcomes and why timely action matters when complications arise.

What Is Polyhydramnios?

Polyhydramnios occurs when excess amniotic fluid surrounds the baby during pregnancy. This fluid cushions and supports fetal development, building up to levels that are not safe. Doctors typically diagnose the condition when ultrasound measurements show an amniotic fluid index (AFI) above 24 centimetres or a deep pocket measuring over 8 centimetres.

Causes of Polyhydramnios

Several factors trigger fluid buildup in the womb. Sometimes, the baby swallows less fluid or produces more urine than usual. Babies with specific congenital disabilities, such as gastrointestinal blockages or neurological issues, struggle to manage the amniotic fluid balance.

Maternal diabetes also plays a key role. High blood sugar levels in the mother often lead to increased fetal urination, which adds to the fluid volume. Infections during pregnancy, like toxoplasmosis or cytomegalovirus, sometimes interfere with the baby’s fluid regulation.

One baby may produce more fluid in multiple pregnancies, while another absorbs less. Rare genetic conditions, blood type mismatches, or problems with the placenta also contribute to this condition.

Signs and Symptoms

Expectant mothers often notice unusual or rapid belly growth. The uterus stretches quickly, causing discomfort, shortness of breath, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, women experience swelling in the legs, pressure in the abdomen, or contractions long before their due date.

Doctors detect polyhydramnios through physical exams and ultrasounds. An overly stretched uterus raises suspicion, prompting providers to check fluid levels and fetal well-being more closely.

Risks and Complications

Polyhydramnios increases the chance of preterm labour. Excess fluid stretches the uterus, which may trigger early contractions. Babies face higher risks of abnormal positioning, such as breech or transverse lie, because they have too much room to move.

During delivery, the risk of cord prolapse rises. When the water breaks, the umbilical cord can slip into the birth canal before the baby, blocking the oxygen supply. Placental abruption also becomes more likely when the placenta detaches before birth and causes heavy bleeding.

Mothers may encounter postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine overdistension. The stretched uterus may struggle to contract after delivery, leading to excessive blood loss. Babies sometimes suffer from growth restrictions, low Apgar scores, or breathing difficulties at birth.

How Doctors Manage Polyhydramnios

Doctors monitor fluid levels and fetal development through regular ultrasounds. In mild cases, no treatment is necessary. For more severe cases, providers manage the mother’s blood sugar, drain excess fluid through amnioreduction, or prescribe medications to reduce fetal urine output. Close observation helps doctors prevent complications. When necessary, early delivery may be required to protect the health of both mother and baby.

Conclusion

Polyhydramnios demands attention and timely care. Each symptom tells a story that guides decisions and protects lives. With precise diagnosis and thoughtful management, families and care teams work together to ensure safer outcomes for both mother and child.