Birth Trauma Law

Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Rare But Serious Birth Complication

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is one of the most alarming complications in pregnancy. While rare, it’s the second leading direct cause of maternal death in Australia, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. AFE occurs in roughly 1 in 40,000 deliveries, with maternal mortality rates ranging from 20% to 60%. Its sudden onset and unpredictable nature make it difficult to diagnose and treat in time.


Despite medical advancements, there is still no clear protocol for diagnosing or managing this life-threatening condition. Tragically, a delay in recognising or addressing AFE can be fatal. 


When medical care falls below the expected standard, it may be considered negligence. If you’re seeking guidance after such an experience, our birth trauma lawyers can help you understand your rights.


What is Amniotic Fluid Embolism?


Amniotic fluid embolism occurs when amniotic fluid, fetal cells, or other debris enter the mother's bloodstream, triggering a severe allergic-like reaction. This leads to two distinct phases:


  1. Respiratory Failure and Cardiac Arrest: Initially, the mother may experience sudden shortness of breath and a rapid drop in blood pressure, which can lead to heart failure.
  2. Hemorrhagic Phase: This is characterised by severe bleeding at the site of placental attachment or caesarean incision, leading to a critical condition known as disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), where blood clotting is impaired.

Given the rapid progression of AFE, immediate medical intervention is crucial. Failure to act swiftly can result in death. When healthcare providers fail to diagnose or manage AFE, it may give rise to a negligent management of pregnancy claim


Risk Factors for Amniotic Fluid Embolism


Although AFE is considered unpredictable and unpreventable, certain factors may increase the risk, including:



  • Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)
  • Abnormalities with the placenta (e.g., placenta previa or placental abruption)
  • Advanced maternal age (over 35 years old)
  • Labour induction using certain medications
  • Caesarean delivery or operative vaginal delivery (forceps or vacuum extraction)
  • Polyhydramnios (excessive amniotic fluid)
  • Uterine rupture or trauma during delivery

While these risk factors may contribute to AFE, it can also occur in healthy women without any warning. However, medical professionals are expected to recognise these risks and take appropriate precautions to minimise potential harm. 


Complications of Amniotic Fluid Embolism


The mortality rate for AFE is estimated to be as high as 50% within the first hour of onset. Even survivors often face long-term complications, including:


  • Cardiac failure
  • Respiratory failure
  • Renal failure
  • Seizures
  • Neurological impairment due to lack of oxygen
  • Multi-organ failure

For infants, the survival rate is around 70%, but many survivors suffer from cognitive impairments, epilepsy, or developmental delays due to the reduced oxygen supply (hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy) during the event. 


If you’ve experienced these types of birth injuries, exploring options for birth trauma compensation can help ease the financial burden.


Can Medical Negligence Lead to AFE?


While AFE is rare and often unavoidable, medical negligence may still play a role in certain cases. Negligence could occur if:


  • Symptoms were not recognised and acted upon quickly.
  • Emergency procedures like a caesarean section were delayed, resulting in preventable harm to the mother or child.
  • Monitoring was insufficient, leading to a failure to detect fetal distress or maternal complications.

In some instances, the failure to diagnose or treat AFE promptly can lead to a tragic outcome. In Queensland, a medical negligence case can be brought against healthcare providers, including obstetricians, nurses, or hospitals, for failing to meet the standard of care. An experienced lawyer can help determine if negligence contributed to the harm you or your loved one suffered.


Symptoms of Amniotic Fluid Embolism 


AFE can develop rapidly, often during labour or shortly after delivery. Some early warning signs include:


  • Sudden difficulty breathing (dyspnoea)
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Anxiety, agitation, or confusion
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Discoloration of the skin (cyanosis)
  • Abnormal vital signs, such as a rapid heart rate

As the condition progresses, more severe symptoms may appear:


  • Cardiopulmonary arrest (heart and lung failure)
  • Severe bleeding (disseminated intravascular coagulopathy)
  • Seizures
  • Loss of consciousness

How is Amniotic Fluid Embolism Diagnosed and Treated?


AFE is typically diagnosed based on clinical presentation and the rapid onset of symptoms. Healthcare professionals may use the following diagnostic tools:


  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor heart function
  • Blood tests to assess clotting factors and cardiac enzymes
  • Chest X-ray to check for fluid in the lungs
  • Vital sign monitoring

Unfortunately, there is no cure for AFE. Treatment is supportive, focusing on managing symptoms as they arise. This may include:


  • Ventilator or oxygen therapy to assist breathing
  • Blood transfusions to address severe bleeding
  • Medications to stabilise blood pressure

If AFE is diagnosed, urgent delivery of the baby is usually required, often via caesarean section, to prevent further complications.


When to Seek Legal Help


If you suspect that medical negligence may have contributed to an amniotic fluid embolism, whether through delayed diagnosis or improper treatment, it is important to seek legal advice. At Birth Trauma Law, we specialise in birth injury cases, helping families pursue compensation for the harm caused by medical negligence.


Our team of experienced lawyers understands the complexities of AFE and can guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected. We offer a free consultation and work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about legal costs.


Contact Us Today


If you or a loved one has suffered from an amniotic fluid embolism, contact us today. Our legal team at Birth Trauma Law is here to support you through this difficult time and help you seek justice for medical negligence.

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