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Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing - The Carter Center

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- Rarely, Rhesus- isoimmunization<br />

- Chorioangioma, a rare tumour of the placenta<br />

Types:<br />

Chronic polyhydramnios is gradual in overt, usually from<br />

about the 30 th week of pregnancy. It is the most common type.<br />

Acute polyhydramnios is very rare. It occurs at about 20<br />

weeks <strong>and</strong> comes on very suddenly. <strong>The</strong> uterus reaches the<br />

xiphisternum in about 3 or 4 days. It is frequently associated<br />

with monozygotic twins or severe fetal abnormality.<br />

Sign <strong>and</strong> symptoms<br />

<strong>The</strong> mother may complain of breathlessness <strong>and</strong> discomfort<br />

If it is acute one, she may have severe abdominal pain<br />

<strong>The</strong> condition may cause exacerbation of symptoms<br />

associated with pregnancy such as indigestion, heart burn<br />

<strong>and</strong> constipation.<br />

Oedema <strong>and</strong> varicosities of the vulva <strong>and</strong> lower limbs may be<br />

present.<br />

Diagnosis<br />

Abdominal examination<br />

On inspection – the uterus is larger than expected for the<br />

period of gestation <strong>and</strong> is globular in shape the skins appears<br />

159

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