Amniotic fluid embolism

Who does it affect?
AFE affects all races and ethnic groups and although it was previously thought to affect those of advanced age it has since been disproved; as has the original thought that AFE only occurred after a long, hard labour. It can, in fact, occur before, during or after delivery and has also been known to occur during abortion, abdominal trauma and amnioinfusion (an infusion of fluid into the amniotic cavity when there is a lack of amniotic fluid). Statistically, AFE occurs in an estimated 1:8000 - 30,000 pregnancies internationally and in the UK three to four pregnant women a year.

Are there any signs?
Characteristic signs of AFE include larger than average babies being carried past their due date, very hard labour before going into shock, high levels of anxiety, complaints of chills, shortness of breath and vomiting.

What is the survival rate?
Shockingly, maternal mortality is high with figures of around 80 per cent, although the neo-natal survival rate is much better at 70 per cent. Statistics also show that 50 per cent of patients with AFE die within the first hour of the onset of symptoms and a high percentage of women who do survive have permanent neurological impairment.

There is, however, no evidence to indicate that survivors of AFE are at risk for amniotic fluid embolism in future pregnancies and the condition is considered to be unpredictable and unpreventable. The cause is still unknown.

There are, however, plans for a confidential register of all cases of AFE to be established for the UK. The aim is to identify any differences or common factors between survivors and fatalities with the hope that it may help to reduce the number of maternal deaths from this condition.

Helpful charities

Tommy's, The Baby Charity
Tommy's is determined to end the heartache caused by premature birth, miscarriage and stillbirth.

Bliss
Bliss provides information and support for families of babies who are or have been in special care. Phone 0500 618140 for support.

Sands
Sands offers support for parents whose baby dies at or soon after the time of birth. Call the helpline on 020 7436 5881.