Hydramnios also known as Polyhydramnios is condition where there is excessive amount of amniotic fluid during pregnancy. Amniotic fluid is the liquid that cushions and protect the baby while in the mother's womb. In normal pregnancy, amniotic fluid is usually between 500 mL to 1000 mL at the term. In hydramnios, the amniotic fluid increases to more than 2,000 mL. 

Causes of Hydramnios

Amniotic fluid is consistently produced by cells found on the amniotic membrane. Most of it is then swallowed by the baby while the others is absorbed into the fetus blood stream and across the placenta. In hydramnios, it is believed that the fetus does not swallow or absorb the required amount of amniotic fluid, leading to excessive amount of amniotic fluid in the uterus. Hydramnios has also been linked to excessive production of urine by the fetus of diabetic mothers.

Signs and Symptoms of Hydramnios

• Rapid enlargement of the abdomen.
• The doctor may not be able to listen to the heart of the fetus due to increased amount of fluid sorrounding the fetus.
• Difficult breathing due to expanding uterus that presses on the diaphragm.
• Swelling or abdominal bloating.
• Increased weight gain.
• Abdominal pain due to stretching caused by the increasing belly.
• Hemorroids and lower extremities varicosities due to poor venous circulation from the extreme pressure.

Mild case of hydramnios does not cause much problem or discomfort and it may settles by its own after sometimes. However, severe cases of hydramnios need urgent medical attention since it may be due to a fetal brain defect or an intestinal obstruction. Other complications that may result from hydramnios include;

 

Hydramnios Treatment and Management

In severe cases, you may need to be admitted to the hospital for further evaluation. The doctor may put you under bed rest to help in improving circulation and to minimize cervical pressure which can lead to a pre term birth.