New Mother Hospitalized in Critical Condition After Amniotic Fluid Embolism

A woman in her 40s is in intensive care at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel HaShomer after being rushed there in serious condition following an amniotic fluid embolism during childbirth at Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center in Bnei Brak. The woman, who has no prior medical conditions, underwent prolonged resuscitation. Her baby was safely delivered and is in good condition, remaining for further care and observation. Mayanei Hayeshua stated that a senior multidisciplinary team fought for the mother's life, and she was connected to an ECMO machine, which temporarily replaces heart and lung function by oxygenating her blood outside the body. Amniotic fluid embolism typically occurs during or shortly after delivery. It happens when amniotic fluid or fetal material enters the mother's bloodstream, triggering a severe immune response that can lead to sudden cardiac and vascular collapse, dangerously low oxygen levels, and life-threatening bleeding. The condition cannot be predicted or diagnosed with certainty beforehand, with diagnosis relying on symptoms after other causes are ruled out. Rapid response, including resuscitation, respiratory and blood pressure support, and blood transfusions, is crucial. Despite its rarity, amniotic fluid embolism is a leading cause of maternal mortality in some countries, occurring in approximately 1 in 15,000 births in North America and 1 in 54,000 in Europe. Mortality rates range from 13% to 30% for mothers and 9% to 44% for infants.