Affected patients may pursue a medical malpractice lawsuit if their doctor's diagnosis of polyhydramnios lapses, resulting in harm. Polyhydramnios is the abnormal increase of amniotic fluid during pregnancy. It is strongly linked to increased neonatal and maternal birth injuries – even death in more severe cases.[1]
Untreated Polyhydramnios Lead to Injury?
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What is Polyhydramnios?
Polyhydramnios occurs when the equilibrium of amniotic fluid production and reabsorption is thrown off. Normally, babies urinate about 500 to 1200 milliliters of amniotic fluid daily; and reabsorbs about 210 to 760 milliliters.[1] At full-term (40 weeks of pregnancy), there should be about 600 milliliters of amniotic fluid in the womb.
This cycle of excretion and reabsorption is crucial in the development of babies; their digestive and respiratory systems included. Amniotic fluid is sterile and contains proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, electrolytes, and other trace elements essential for fetal nutrition. It also protects babies from infections agents.[2]
Some early symptoms that may be caught by doctors or patients include:
- Rapid uterine growth (based on fundal height)
- Difficulty in movement and/or breathing
- Abdominal tightness
- Leg or feet swelling
- Back pain
- Tensed uterus
Polyhydramnios only occurs in one to two percent of all pregnancies but is considered a high-risk obstetric condition.
What Causes Polyhydramnios?
Polyhydramnios may be caused by a combination of maternal and congenital factors. Poor maternal health is linked to this disorder; with diabetic mothers being notably more susceptible. Hypertension, which causes irregular heart and blood activities, may also be a contributing factor. Doctors must properly address these risk factors (or any underlying ones) during pregnancy to avoid any injuries.[1]
Possible Long-term Complications
Polyhydramnios is strongly linked with other pregnancy complications; such as preterm labors, macrosomia, fetal malpositions, and umbilical cord issues.[1] These complications make deliveries difficult and increases the chance of harming both mother and child.
Here is a list of potential long-term complications for untreated cases of polyhydramnios:
For the Mother:
- Increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage
- Higher likelihood of developing chronic pelvic pain
- Potential for long-term bladder or pelvic floor dysfunction
- Increased risk of postpartum depression due to complicated pregnancy and delivery
- Possibility of developing chronic back pain from excessive abdominal stretching
For the Child:
- Increased risk of cerebral palsy if severe oxygen deprivation occurred during birth
- Potential for long-term respiratory issues if born with underdeveloped lungs
- Higher likelihood of metabolic disorders if the cause was undiagnosed gestational diabetes
- Possible cognitive and sensory impairments from birth injury
- Death
In birth injury cases, compensation ensures that an injured child is provided with all the necessary support for their growth and development. Injured mothers must also be allowed to return to their healthiest state. Apart from medical expenses, other economic and non-economic losses are also factored in.
For actual compensation figures, please refer to our previous wins.
Seeking Medical Compensation?
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Working Around Polyhydramnios
For pregnant women suspected of polyhydramnios, an ultrasound may be conducted to assess their actual state. More experienced doctors can confirm or negate the condition just from impressions alone. Biometric measurements, on the other hand, are available for relatively new providers.[1]
An early diagnosis for polyhydramnios is important for treatment. This would also allow medical teams to tailor a delivery plan for the well-being of both mother and child. Competent medical providers could also opt to:
- Conduct regular monitoring and screening
- Prescribe appropriate medications
- Perform an amnioreduction
- Treat underlying maternal health risks (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, etc.)
- Administer an early delivery (for more severe cases)
Doctors who failed to work around polyhydramnios because of negligence are liable for all damages they would cause.
Speak to a Birth Injury Lawyer Today
At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.
