14-03-2025
Dubai: Mother, baby saved after pregnancy turns into rare life-threatening emergency
What was supposed to be a routine delivery for a second-time mother — at full-term pregnancy — turned into a life-threatening emergency for both the mother and baby. Thanks to swift medical action, both of them survived.
Indian mum Radhikaben Sachin Dolakiya, 33, was admitted to International Modern Hospital, Bur Dubai last month for labour induction (this is when doctors use medicines or other medical methods to bring on labour before the pregnant woman goes into labour on her own) due to high blood sugar levels, excess amniotic fluid, and a larger-than-average baby.
'Everything seemed under control until the unexpected happened,' Dr Meera T Anto, specialist gynaecologist at IMH, told Khaleej Times.
'What started as a routine delivery turned into a battle for survival against one of the rarest and deadliest obstetric emergencies — amniotic fluid embolism (AFE),' she added, explaining: 'During labour, Radhikaben's water suddenly broke — a normal part of childbirth. But in a terrifying turn of events, she collapsed within moments.
'Her symptoms were alarming. Her pulse was weak and barely detectable. Her heart rate dropped to dangerously low levels (bradycardia). The baby also went into distress, with a sudden drop in heart rate. It was clear that both lives were in immediate danger,' she noted.
According to a medical journal, 'AFE is a dangerous and life-threatening complication that occurs during delivery or shortly after giving birth. It is very difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be similar to other serious complications during childbirth. It is a rare and life-threatening complication that occurs when a pregnant woman gets amniotic fluid (the liquid that surrounds the fetus) into their bloodstream just before, during, or immediately after childbirth.'
Emergency surgery
'It was a race against time,' said Dr Anto, 'to save the lives of the mother and baby." Recognising the hallmark signs of amniotic fluid embolism, the medical team rushed Radhikaben to the operating room for an emergency cesarean section (C-section).
'The mother's condition rapidly deteriorated. She developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) — a life-threatening blood clotting disorder that triggered massive internal bleeding, leading to a 2.5-liter blood loss.
'To stabilise her, she was given eight pints of blood, multiple units of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and other blood products,' Dr Anto continued.
Even after surgery, Radhikaben was not out of danger. Further tests revealed she had developed a rectus sheath hematoma—a collection of blood in the abdominal muscles, a known complication of DIC-related bleeding disorders.
Instead of opting for another major surgery, the hospital's interventional radiology team stepped in with a minimally invasive procedure to stop the bleeding. They performed an embolization, blocking the bleeding vessel and successfully preventing further complications.
Triumph of teamwork
'It was a miracle in the delivery room,' Dr Anto highlighted, noting: 'Thanks to to swift medical action, a dedicated team, and cutting-edge care, both mother and baby survived against all odds.'
'Radhikaben and her baby made a full recovery, proving that even the most dire obstetric emergencies can have positive outcomes with the right expertise and quick decision-making,' the doctor added.
'For mothers-to-be, this case is a powerful reminder that modern medicine can handle even the rarest complications. With expert care and rapid intervention, even a life-threatening condition like AFE can be overcome,' Dr Anto continued.
Today, Radhikaben and her baby are healthy and thriving. The mother of two said: "Heartfelt gratitude to Dr Anto and the incredible team at IMH for their unwavering care and expertise. They not only saved my life but also brought my newborn safely into this world. Forever grateful for their dedication and compassion."
Meanwhile, Dr Anto said: 'Here's what every expecting mother should know — while AFE is extremely rare, this case highlights important lessons in maternal care:
Recognising warning signs saves lives — A sudden collapse during labour is a red flag that demands immediate action.
Medical teamwork is key — Obstetricians, anesthesiologists, intensivists, neonatologists, and radiologists must work together seamlessly to save both mother and baby.
Advanced medical interventions matter – Timely blood transfusions, neonatal resuscitation, and interventional radiology play a critical role in survival.
