What is amniotic embolism?

It is a rare condition in which amniotic fluid, which surrounds and protects the fetus inside the uterus during pregnancy, leaks into the maternal blood, causing severe consequences in the mother such as organic heart and lung damage and hemorrhages.

Amniotic fluid embolism usually occurs at the end of pregnancy, although there are also cases in which it can occur in the first months when an abortion is performed.

About 20% of women who suffer a pulmonary embolism die from it.

Although the direct cause of amniotic fluid embolism is unknown, several potential risks for developing it have been identified, such as:

• C-section.
• Use of forceps during childbirth.
• Mother over 40 years old.
• Multiple pregnancy.
• Placental abruption.
• Placenta previa.
• Abdominal or cervical injuries.
• Polyhydramnios.
• Hydramnios.
• Induced labor.
• Head injury.
• Cervical laceration.
• Abortion.
• Manual placental extraction.
• Amniocentesis.

• Accelerated heart rate.
• Arrhythmia.
• High blood pressure.
• Trouble breathing.
• Cyanosis.
• Bleeding.

After analyzing the symptoms and clinical history, the doctor will perform a physical examination and will indicate the necessary tests to allow them to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.

The treatment to follow is based on:

• Blood transfusions.
• Coagulation factor injections.

Comprehensive women’s health is our priority at the Women’s Center, so we offer services focused on women in all their chronological stages with the highest standards of care to improve their quality of life, through a wide range of prevention, diagnosis, timely treatment, and follow-up services.

Women’s Center
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory