Prevalence of Congenital Anomalies in Polyhydramnios: A hospital based study from Western Nepal

Abstract

Introduction: Polyhydramnios is excessive amount of amniotic fluid in relation to gestational age. It is frequently associated with congenital anomalies of the fetus. The aim of this study was to see the prevalence of congenital anomalies in polyhydramnios.

Methods: Singleton pregnant irrespective of gestational age with amniotic fluid index more than 25 were included in the study. Degree of polyhydramnios was graded as mild, moderate and severe. Detail study of fetus was done for possible congenital anomalies. Congenital anomalies were confirmed with post-natal findings.

Results: There were 39 pregnant women with amniotic fluid index (AFI) > 25 cm. Prevalence of polyhydramnios was 0.3%. Congenital anomalies were present in 31.6 % of pregnant women with polyhydramnios. In pregnant women with severe polyhydramnios; 66.6 % had congenital anomalies. Central nervous system, gastrointestinal and skeletal anomalies were the frequent anomalies associated with polyhydramnios.

Conclusion: Polyhydramnios is associated with increased risk of congenital anomalies hence a detail survey of fetus should be done for possible congenital anomalies.