P01: Fetus and newborn affected by maternal complications of pregnancy

P01.3: Fetus and newborn affected by polyhydramnios

When the pregnancy begins, the amniotic sac containing the amniotic fluid develops in the womb. The amniotic sac surrounds the child. The amniotic fluid keeps the amniotic sac stretched so that the child can move about.

There can be different reasons why there is too much amniotic fluid. Reasons may include, for example, diabetes in the mother, deformities in the child, or multiple pregnancies.

If there is too much amniotic fluid, the child's health can be harmed. The child may move about more vigorously than usual in the amniotic sac. As a result, the child may be in an unusual position in the womb at birth. There can then be difficulties with the birth. If there is too much amniotic fluid, the mother's waters may break prematurely. In such a case, the amniotic sac ruptures before the contractions begin. This can trigger a premature birth. A premature birth can also harm the child's health.