Under what circumstances should an amnioinfusion not be performed?

Amnioinfusion is a procedure that involves the introduction of sterile fluid into the amniotic cavity via transcervical catheter. It is primarily used to alleviate umbilical cord compression during labor, especially in cases where variable decelerations are present due to oligohydramnios or meconium-stained amniotic fluid.

It is contraindicated in the presence of active pushing or when there is the presence of meconium. This is because if meconium is present, introducing additional fluid can increase the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome in the newborn. The procedure could also potentially interfere with the birthing process when the mother is actively pushing, as it may lead to complications or impede effective labor. Therefore, the presence of meconium and active pushing renders the performance of an amnioinfusion inappropriate due to the elevated risks associated with these conditions.

In contrast, while early decelerations are often benign and do not primarily indicate the need for amnioinfusion, stable fetal heart rates reflect a healthy condition where the necessity for intervention like amnioinfusion is not typically warranted. Similarly, periods of maternal rest do not present an acute reason to avoid amnioinfusion, as it concerns ongoing monitoring rather than