User:Mr. Ibrahem/Amniotic fluid embolism

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a complication around childbirth in which fetal tissue enters the blood stream of the mother resulting in health problems. Onset is rapid. Initial symptoms may include headache, chest pain, nausea, and shortness of breath. This may be followed by bleeding problems, coma, or cardiac arrest.

Risk factors are unclear; though those affected may more commonly have allergies. The underlying mechanism is believed to involve an allergic reaction to fetal tissue that has entered the mother's blood. Diagnosis is based on symptoms, particularly low oxygen and low blood pressure, after ruling out other possible causes.

Treatment is generally supportive care. This may include oxygen therapy, intubation and ventilation, blood transfusions, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). If delivery has not yet occurred, rapid delivery may be required. Of those who survive, some have brain damage while others return to normal.

Amniotic fluid embolism occurs in about 1 in 40,000 deliveries. Older mothers are more commonly affected. Of those affected about 40% die. It is a relatively common cause of death during pregnancy, representing about 7.5% of such deaths in the United States. The condition was first described in 1926.