OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS: Causes and Treatment
Oligohydramnios is the condition where the level of the amniotic fluid decreases during the gestation period. It is associated with maternal and fetal complications.
During pregnancy, the volume of amniotic fluid gradually increases until 33 weeks of gestation period. It increases from 33-38 weeks and then decreases. Approximately the volume of amniotic fluid is 500ml. It mainly comprised of fetal urine output, placenta and fetal secretions.
The fetus inhales and swallows the amniotic fluid. It gets to sort out, fills in the bladder and is excreted this cycle repeats. Any obstructions in this cycle lead to either increased or too little fluid.
Anything which decreases the production of urine or obstructs the output from the fetus or rupture of the membrane can lead to oligohydramnios.
Causes of oligohydramnios
- Post-term pregnancy
- Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes
- Renal agenesis (potter’s syndrome)
- Placental insufficiency
- Viral infections
- Non-functioning fetal kidneys
- Fetal chromosomal abnormalities
- Premature rupture of membranes
- Idiopathic
- Drugs like angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, NSAIDs.
Can it be treated?
oligohydramnios is a serious condition, and one must be in regular consultation with the doctor. The following options are generally explored by a doctor in such cases.
- If observed before 36 weeks of the gestational period- the doctor will advise to increase fluid intake and monitor fetal growth on a regular basis. USG is also advised.
- If observed after 37 weeks- delivery is the safest option.
- Low amniotic fluid during labor- amnioinfusion may be considered, wherein the fluid is infused in the amniotic sac.