PREGNANCY DAYS For most pregnant women, carrying a baby to term is largely a mysterious process. This section helps new parents answer some of the most important questions about pregnancy and childbirth.

POLYHYDRAMNIOS in Pregnancy

An excessive amount of amniotic fluid is called polyhydramnios, and is often associated with a multiple pregnancy (twins or triplets), congenital anomalies, or gestational diabetes.

Polyhydramnios or increased amniotic fluid volume is diagnosed by ultrasound.

WHAT CAN BE THE CAUSE FOR THIS?

MATERNAL CAUSES WOULD BE

• Multiple pregnancy
• Diabetes

FETAL CAUSES ARE

• Central nervous system malformation like (anencephaly, hydrocephalous etc)
• Cardiac defects like (septal holes,tetrology of fallot ,dextrocardi)
• Craniofacial abnormalities like(cleft lip and cleft palate)
• Diaphragmatic hernia
• Oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal atresia

CAN I KNOW THIS CLINICALLY?

Polyhydramnios usually starts from about the thirtieth week of pregnancy. You may feel that your tummy is getting too large too quickly and that your skin is stretched and shiny. You might feel so breathless that it is hard to climb a flight of stairs.

In acute onset increased volume ,patient presents with acute abdominal catastrophe,and causing pain and distress to the mother.

Gradual onset may cause breathlessness, increased abdominal girth,edema, digestive problems,varicose veins etc.

WHAT IS THE TREATMENT?

In most of the cases ,conservative treatment is done and mother is treated symptomatically.in some ,amnioreduction ie removal of some amount of amniotic fluid can be done and in very few of the cases anti praostaglandins can be given.

What are the best ways to cope with Polyhydramnios?

If you are very breathless:

• Get plenty of rest
• Do household chores in small bursts.

You may also find that you have heartburn because your tummy is pushing against your stomach: Eat small amounts regularly.

• Don't lie down after a meal
• Avoid spicy foods
• Sleep well propped up in bed
• You can get an antacid prescription from your doctor, but the more you have, the less effective antacids tend to be.