Polyhydramnios
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
Polyhydramnios is a condition that causes you to have too much amniotic fluid during pregnancy. You may need to be treated in the hospital for problems caused by polyhydramnios. You may also need to deliver your baby even if he or she is not full term. If you are discharged before your baby is born, you will need to watch for serious signs and symptoms.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- You have clear fluid leaking from your vagina.
- You have heavy bleeding or any bleeding from your vagina for more than 24 hours.
- You have vision changes or problems, such as blurred vision.
Call your obstetrician if:
- Your baby is moving less than usual.
- You gain weight rapidly, or you have swelling in your legs or face.
- You have a fever or chills.
- You have contractions before you are due.
- You have cramps, pressure in your abdomen, or a low backache.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
- Medicine may be given to make your baby urinate less.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Follow up with your obstetrician as directed:
You may need tests every 1 to 3 weeks. Go to all follow-up visits. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Care for yourself until delivery:
- Elevate your head. Keep your head and shoulders propped up when you are lying down. This position will help you breathe deeply and prevent shortness of breath.
- Get more rest. Your healthcare provider may tell you to alternate rest with activity. Activity improves your circulation and breathing.
- Drink liquids as directed. Liquids can help prevent the amniotic sac from rupturing (tearing). This is called premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Amniotic fluid can leak out of a torn amniotic sac.
Lower your risk for polyhydramnios in a future pregnancy:
You may not be able to prevent polyhydramnios. The following may lower the risk:
- Do not smoke. Nicotine increases the risk for problems with your pregnancy and your baby's health. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help quitting.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and beans. Healthy foods can help you gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy, and prevent diabetes.
- Take prenatal vitamins as directed. The vitamins should contain at least 4,000 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid helps prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. Your healthcare provider can help you choose a prenatal vitamin that is right for you.
- Control diabetes or other medical conditions. Diabetes can cause problems for your baby, such as too much weight gain. If you have diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to manage your blood sugar levels before and during your next pregnancy.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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