Amniotic Band Syndrome occurs when the fetus becomes entangled in fibrous string-like amniotic bands in the womb, restricting blood flow and affecting the baby’s development.
Amniotic Band Syndrome can cause a number of different anomalies depending on which body part(s) is affected. If a band wraps tightly around a limb, the limb can actually be completely amputated. If the band is across the baby’s face it can cause cleft lip and palate. In a large number of cases the baby is also born with clubfeet. ABS is also the cause of numerous miscarriages, such as when a band becomes wrapped around the umbilical cord.
ABS occurs randomly. It’s not genetic, nor is it caused by anything a pregnant Mom did or didn’t do during pregnancy. To date, no prenatal factors have been associated with ABS. It is extremely unlikely that ABS will affect a future pregnancy.
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Evan’s Story
My son, Evan, was born with ABS affecting his left hand and with bi-lateral clubfeet. A band wrapped around Evan’s left hand, and as a result three of his fingers didn’t fully develop and they remained webbed (syndactyly). Evan also had bilateral clubfeet [read Evan's story] or [Browse through other ABS stories]
About this website
In 1993 when Evan was born we had never heard of Amniotic Band Syndrome. The Internet was just a baby at that time too and I didn’t know where to find the information I needed. I’ve learned a lot about ABS over the years so I developed this website to share this with others.
Keep in mind that I have no medical training. Please consult a medical professional for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Share your Story
Please, submit your story to add to the site and read and comment on the stories that others have contributed ~ it’s these personal stories that make this site special.
