Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a very serious and rare complication of childbirth. In this article, we’ll define the term “amniotic fluid embolism” and explain how it relates to birth injury law.
Key Takeaways
- Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare childbirth compilation affecting both the birthing parent and the baby
- It is estimated that there are 1 - 12 cases of amniotic fluid embolism for every 100,000 deliveries
- Symptoms of amniotic fluid embolism include bleeding, seizures, and heart failure
- The exact cause of amniotic fluid embolism is unknown but the latest research suggests it is caused by an immune reaction to substances such as amniotic fluid entering the birthing parent’s bloodstream
- Risk factors for amniotic fluid embolism include preeclampsia, polyhydramnios, and operative delivery
- Complications of amniotic fluid embolism include brain injury and fetal and maternal death
- Treatments for amniotic fluid embolism include hysterectomy, steroids, and transfusions
What Is an Amniotic Fluid Embolism (AFE)?
Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE), also called anaphylactoid syndrome of pregnancy, is a very rare complication of childbirth that can affect both the birthing parent and the baby. The exact cause is unknown but it is thought that amniotic fluid embolism is caused by amniotic fluid entering the birthing parent’s bloodstream. When the amniotic fluid mixes with the birthing parent’s blood, it can cause an allergy-like reaction that can be fatal. It is estimated that there are between one and 12 cases of amniotic fluid embolism for every 100,000 deliveries.
Symptoms of Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Signs and symptoms of amniotic fluid embolism include:
- Bleeding from the uterus, cesarean incision or intravenous (IV) sites
- Chills
- Altered mental status, such as anxiety or a sense of doom
- Seizures
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Excess fluid in the lungs
- Life-threatening problems with blood clotting
- Sudden low blood pressure
- Rapid heart rate
- Disturbances in the rhythm of the heart rate
- Sudden failure of the heart to effectively pump blood
- Fetal distress, such as a slow heart rate, or other fetal heart rate abnormalities
- Loss of consciousness
Causes of Amniotic Fluid Embolism
As we mentioned above, the exact causes of amniotic fluid embolism are not yet understood. Previously, it was believed that only the entrance of amniotic fluid into a birthing parent’s bloodstream causes amniotic fluid embolism. However, many people can be exposed to amniotic fluid in their bloodstream and not have the amniotic fluid embolism reaction. Instead, the most recent research suggests that amniotic fluid embolism is caused by an overreaction of a birthing parent’s immune system to substances such as the amniotic fluid, fetal cells, and fetal antigens that enter the bloodstream during birth.
Risk Factors for Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Research points to several factors potentially indicating a higher risk for amniotic fluid embolism, including:
- Preeclampsia
- Polyhydramnios, or too much amniotic fluid
- Operative delivery including C-section, forceps delivery or vacuum extraction
- Medically induced labor
- Placenta problems such as placenta previa or placental abruption
- Advanced maternal age of 35 or older
Complications of Amniotic Fluid Embolism
Amniotic fluid embolism is a very serious condition with complications such as:
- Maternal death - As many as 20% of maternal deaths in developed countries may be due to amniotic fluid embolisms
- Infant death - The baby can experience brain injury or even death as a result of an amniotic fluid embolism
- Lengthy hospital stay - Birthing parents who survive an amniotic fluid embolism may spend weeks or months in the intensive care unit
- Brain injury - Low blood oxygen caused by amniotic fluid embolism can lead to permanent, severe neurological damage or brain death
Treatment for Amniotic Fluid Embolism
As a life-threatening emergency condition, amniotic fluid embolism must be treated quickly. Treatments include:
- Oxygenation by tracheal tube or mechanical ventilation
- Hysterectomy
- Multiple blood, plasma and platelet transfusions
- Steroids
- Urgent delivery
- Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Amniotic Fluid Embolisms and Birth Injury Law
Because amniotic fluid embolism is such a serious and dangerous condition, medical professionals must act quickly and diligently in order to save the lives of affected parents and babies. A failure to respond to amniotic fluid embolism properly can be considered negligence. If you or a loved one have experienced amniotic fluid embolism complications due to medical malpractice, you may be eligible for compensation for your pain and suffering. It is recommended to speak to a birth injury lawyer to help you navigate your legal case.
