Abnormally large amount of amniotic fluid in the uterus

Normal amniotic fluid volume: from 500 to 1,000 ml at term

Amniotic fluid volume with polyhydramnios: greater than 2,000 ml

Possible complications: prolapsed umbilical cord when membranes rupture, increased incidence of malpresentations, increased perinatal mortality from fetal malformations and premature deliveries, and increased incidence of postpartum maternal hemorrhage

Also called hydramnios