Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare and life-threatening condition that occurs during pregnancy or childbirth. It occurs when amniotic fluid, which surrounds the fetus in the uterus, enters the mother's bloodstream and causes a severe reaction.

Symptoms of AFE can include rapid onset of shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, blue or gray skin color, and seizures. These symptoms can occur suddenly and can rapidly lead to life-threatening complications, including cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, and organ failure.

The exact cause of AFE is not well understood, but it is thought to occur when the amniotic fluid, fetal cells, hair, or other debris from the uterus enters the bloodstream and triggers an immune response.

Diagnosis of AFE is typically made based on the presence of specific symptoms and the rapid onset of severe reactions during pregnancy or childbirth.

Treatment for AFE is typically focused on supporting the mother's vital functions and stabilizing her condition, as well as addressing any complications that may arise. This may include medications to manage symptoms, mechanical ventilation to support breathing, and fluid and electrolyte replacement to maintain blood pressure and support organ function.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of AFE during pregnancy or childbirth, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment can help improve outcomes and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications.

Amniotic fluid embolism occurs when amniotic fluid or fetal material enters the mother's bloodstream. A likely cause is a breakdown in the placental barrier, such as from trauma.

When this breakdown happens, the immune system responds by releasing products that cause an inflammatory reaction, which activates abnormal clotting in the mother's lungs and blood vessels. This can result in a serious blood-clotting disorder known as disseminated intravascular coagulation.

However, amniotic fluid embolisms are rare — and it's likely that some amniotic fluid commonly enters the mother's bloodstream during delivery without causing problems. It's not clear why in some mothers this leads to amniotic fluid embolism.

Amniotic fluid embolism requires rapid treatment to address low blood oxygen and low blood pressure.

Emergency treatments might include:

• Catheter placement. A thin, hollow tube placed into one of your arteries (arterial catheter) might be used to monitor your blood pressure. You might also have another tube placed into a vein in your chest (central venous catheter), which can be used to give fluids, medications or transfusions, as well as draw blood.
• Oxygen. You might need to have a breathing tube inserted into your airway to help you breathe.
• Medications. Your doctor might give you medications to improve and support your heart function. Other medications might be used to decrease the pressure caused by fluid going into your heart and lungs.
• Transfusions. If you have uncontrollable bleeding, you'll need transfusions of blood, blood products and replacement fluids.

If you have amniotic fluid embolism before delivering your baby, your doctor will treat you with the goal of safely delivering your baby as soon as possible. An emergency C-section might be needed.