Amnioinfusion is a procedure that adds amniotic fluid to your uterus during labor. Not having enough amniotic fluid can cause delivery complications. Pregnancy care providers only use this procedure in certain situations.
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Amnioinfusion is a treatment that adds extra fluid into the amniotic sac. Healthcare providers use it during labor if the fetus shows signs of fetal distress after your water breaks. During amnioinfusion, your provider uses a catheter to insert saline or sodium lactate into your uterus. This fluid replaces lost amniotic fluid.
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Here’s what it does and why providers use it:
During an amnioinfusion, your healthcare provider places a thin plastic tube, called an intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC), into your uterus. The IUPC attaches to a monitor and an infusion pump and delivers fluid into your uterus. Your cervix must be 1 to 2 centimeters dilated.
Your provider uses the tubing to put fluid into your uterus. You can expect this part to last between 30 minutes and two hours The exact time and amount of fluid depend on your condition.
Your provider continues to monitor your amniotic fluid levels to be sure the treatment is working.
There isn’t a recovery time afterward. You may feel a little discomfort while your provider adds fluid. But when it’s over, your labor and delivery will continue as usual.
It’s usually successful if the cause of fetal distress is cord compression (fetus laying on the umbilical cord). In these cases, replacing more fluid usually leads to better results.
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Some situations make amnioinfusion too risky. Providers avoid it when:
Besides improving the fetal heart rate and signs of distress, amnioinfusion can help:
Overall, amnioinfusion is a safe and effective way to add fluid. But it comes with some risks. Complications of amnioinfusion could include:
Your healthcare provider can discuss the risks and benefits of amnioinfusion with you. They’ll determine if it’s the right treatment for you based on your situation.
Always contact your pregnancy care provider if you feel fluid leaking from your vagina during pregnancy. They can check if it’s amniotic fluid. It's also important to keep and attend all your prenatal visits. This lets your provider find any issues with your amniotic fluid as soon as possible.
Yes. You can only have amnioinfusion if the membrane is ruptured (your water is broken).
Amnioinfusion helps replace amniotic fluid. It involves adding sterile fluid, like saline or sodium lactate, into your uterus. It’s only done in specific circumstances, like when your baby shows signs of distress or when an ultrasound shows you have low amniotic fluid.
Talk to your pregnancy care provider if you have any questions about amnioinfusion or your amniotic fluid levels. They can discuss the process with you and help you understand what to expect.
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Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards.
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