too much fluid?

Question

Has anyone had too much fluid? What did they do if so?

Answer

Hi ladies.

Yes, I was diagnosed with polyhydramnios -- the medical term for abnormally high amniotic fluid. You can google it for more info.

Your doctor can check for this by doing an ultrasound to measure 4 quadrants of amniotic fluid. The total of this is called your amniotic fluid index (AFI). Alternatively, if just one quadrant has an abnormally high amount of fluid, your dr might still say you have this condition.

If it's not too excessive, not increasingly rapidly, nor causing you too much discomfort, you might not need to have anything done. Some time between week 34-37 the level also tends to decrease.

In my case, it was increasing rapidly, considered severe (my AFI measured 36cm -- over 25cm is already excessive), and causing me a great deal of discomfort (severe breathing problems, racing heart). So I had an Amnioreduction done (similar to amniocentesis except a much longer process) and they drained 1.5 liters of fluid! I felt immediate relief!

Unfortunately, in my case, my level is starting to rise again and symptoms seem to be returning though not yet to the same degree. 
We'll have to keep monitoring the level. I'm now in week 32 and hoping not to have this done again.

Alternatively, I heard there's a pill you can take to reduce the fluid but it's only prescribed before week 32 and there are possible risks to your baby.

I hope this helps and I really hope that the problem (if there is one) will just correct itself in your case. Many women who have too much fluid continue their pregnancy without too much discomfort and deliver perfectly healthy babies.

Wishing you ladies all the best!!! 😘

Answer

If it's high enough to be a risk to baby then they will drain some fluid but if it's only a small amount more then they will monitor you.

Answer

Following. I'm getting an ultrasound next week because my midwife thinks this is my problem.

too much fluid?

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