What serious condition can occur due to amniotic fluid entering the maternal circulatory system?

Amniotic fluid embolism is a serious condition that can occur when amniotic fluid, along with fetal cells, hair, or other debris, enters the maternal circulatory system, typically during labor or shortly after delivery. This rare but life-threatening event leads to a cascade of physiological responses, including the activation of the mother’s immune system and clotting cascade, potentially resulting in cardiopulmonary collapse, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and significant complications for both mother and baby.

The pathophysiology involves the amniotic fluid entering the bloodstream, which can trigger an intense inflammatory response and impair the blood flow to vital organs. Symptoms may include sudden shortness of breath, hypotension, and altered mental status. Its onset is often rapid, and immediate medical intervention is critical for the best possible outcomes.

Other listed conditions do not involve the direct entry of amniotic fluid into the circulation. Placenta previa refers to the placenta covering the cervix, gestational hypertension involves high blood pressure during pregnancy related to placental function, and uterine rupture is a breach in the uterine wall. While all are serious obstetric complications, they do not share the same mechanism or risk associated with amniotic fluid entering