Woman in Her 40s Suffers Amniotic Fluid Embolism During Childbirth, Requires Resuscitation

A woman in her 40s, with no prior medical conditions, experienced a life-threatening amniotic fluid embolism during childbirth at Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center in Bnei Brak. The complication necessitated prolonged resuscitation efforts. Due to the severity of her condition, medical teams from Sheba Medical Center were called to the scene to connect her to an ECMO machine, a device not available at Mayanei Hayeshua, which supports heart and lung functions. Following connection to the ECMO, she was transferred to the cardiac surgery intensive care unit at Sheba for further treatment. Her condition is reportedly critical.

The baby was delivered safely and is in good condition, remaining at Mayanei Hayeshua for observation. Amniotic fluid embolism is described as a rare and dangerous obstetric complication that can occur during or around labor. It happens when amniotic fluid or fetal material enters the mother's bloodstream, triggering a severe reaction that can lead to rapid organ system collapse, cardiac and pulmonary dysfunction, and severe clotting disorders. Doctors note that survivors often experience memory loss of the traumatic event and may face long-term consequences, including neurological damage.