What condition is characterized by an excess of amniotic fluid?

Hydramnios, also referred to as polyhydramnios, is characterized by an excess of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus during pregnancy. This condition can occur due to various reasons, including multiple pregnancies, fetal anomalies, maternal diabetes, or issues with the placenta. The presence of excessive fluid can lead to complications for both the mother and the fetus, such as increased discomfort for the mother, the risk of preterm labor, and abnormal fetal positioning.

In contrast, amniocentesis is a procedure used to collect amniotic fluid for testing. Oligohydramnios describes a condition where there is too little amniotic fluid, which can pose risks to fetal development and overall health. Placenta previa involves the placenta partially or completely covering the cervix, which can lead to complications during delivery but does not pertain to the amount of amniotic fluid present. Thus, hydramnios is specifically the term that addresses the excess fluid condition, making it the correct answer.