Cardiff Mom’s Extraordinary Pregnancy Due to Rare Condition
Lauren Draper, 22, from Cardiff, experienced a rare and intense pregnancy due to extreme polyhydramnios—a condition involving excess amniotic fluid. By 29 weeks, her baby bump grew so large that strangers made shocked or humorous comments, with some doubting its authenticity.
The condition occurred because her unborn baby wasn’t swallowing fluid as expected, causing rapid belly expansion. By 34 weeks, Lauren faced severe discomfort and was hospitalized at 31 weeks due to risks like cord prolapse.
When her waters broke at 34 weeks and 4 days, Lauren suffered a placental abruption and hemorrhage, requiring an emergency C-section. Her daughter, Olyve, was born not breathing and needed resuscitation and intensive care for respiratory issues.
Despite the trauma, baby Olyve, weighing 6lbs 1oz, is continuing to recover. Lauren remains hopeful, sharing her story to highlight the challenges of rare pregnancy complications and the strength of maternal love.