Polyhydramnios;

Abstract

Background: Polyhydramnios is an obstetrical condition associated withsignificant perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. Although it is uncommon conditionbut a source of much discomfort to the patient. Objectives: To determine the maternal andfetal outcome of Polyhydramnios. Study Design: Descriptive cross sectional study. Setting:Gynaecology and Obstetrics Department of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar. Period: 1stJanuary 2016 to 31st December 2016. Methodology: All the cases diagnosed as polyhydramniosaccording to amniotic fluid index in four pockets, in women of any age or parity after 20 weeksgestation were included. Results: Incidence of polyhydramnios was 1.8%.170(61%) caseswere in age range of 31- 40 years and 137(49%) were multigravidas. 162(58%) cases had mildpolyhydramnios. Pre ecclampsia was the commonest maternal condition associated in 42(15%)cases followed by anemia in 39(13.97%) and diabetes in 28(10%) cases. Complications thatoccurred as a result were preterm labor in 33(11.8%), premature rupture of membranes in28(10%) and malpresentation in 22(7.88%) cases. Commonest fetal congenital anomaly wasanencephaly in 36(13%), hydrocephaly in 15(5.3%) and cleft lip and palate in 13(4.6%) cases.Out of 279 feti, 42(15%) were intrauterine deaths and 28(10%) were stillborns. Conclusion:Early diagnosis, timely referral, termination if needed and good management in labor toavoid complications are keys to deal with a polyhydramnios patient. Antenatal care should beemphasized amongst the women and families.