Polyhydramnios
When an expectant mother experiences polyhydramnios, it means the level of the amniotic fluid surrounding the unborn fetus is too high. Amniotic fluid protects your child and provides it with fluids while in utero. The baby will breathe this fluid into his or her lungs and swallow it. By doing this, the fluid helps your baby’s lungs and digestive system grow. In addition, it also supports your child as he or she moves around inside you, promoting strong muscles and bones.
Because amniotic fluid is so important in your child’s healthy development, polyhydramnios can be a serious condition for mother and baby alike. This condition occurs in about 2 out of every 100 pregnancies. Though most cases are mild and only occur because of slow fluid build-up in the second half of the pregnancy, sometimes the fluid can build up as early as the 16th week. When this happens, early delivery usually occurs.
Obstetricians, nurses and other medical professionals are responsible for monitoring your condition and the amount of amniotic fluid you have. If polyhydramnios is diagnosed, they should take adequate steps to prevent complications. When this is not done, medical malpractice may have occurred. To learn more about polyhydramnios and your rights as a victim of malpractice, contact the experienced Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130.
Medical Complications
The following complications could occur due to polyhydramnios:
- Rupture of the amniotic sac membranes
- Umbilical cord complications
- Preterm delivery
- Placental abruption
- Severe bleeding
- Poor growth of the fetus
- Stillbirth
- Cesarean delivery
Expectant mothers with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing this condition, so it is vital that healthcare professionals take all necessary measures to monitor the baby’s health and the amniotic fluid amount. For other women, the best way to treat the condition is by frequent and accurate monitoring during prenatal care. If this is not done, you deserve justice under the law if you experienced physical or emotional damages because of the malpractice you experienced.
Contact Us
If you have been a victim of polyhydramnios and believe your doctors acted in a negligent manner in treating you, call the Philadelphia birth injury attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today at 215-238-1130.