In plain words
Oligohydramnios means there is less amniotic fluid around the baby than expected for that stage of pregnancy. The fluid cushions the baby and helps the lungs and limbs develop. The amount is measured on ultrasound. Low fluid can have many causes. It can happen when the water breaks early, when the placenta is not working well, or when the baby's kidneys do not make enough urine. Some medicines can also lower the fluid. Mothers may be told the level is low and offered more checks. Many pregnancies with low fluid end well, and the cause guides the plan. Low fluid is different from the normal change in fluid that happens near the end of pregnancy.
The deeper version
Oligohydramnios is typically diagnosed when the is 5 centimeters or less, or the single deepest vertical pocket is 2 centimeters or less (Phelan et al., 1987; the 5 centimeter cut-off is widely used in ACOG and ultrasound practice). Causes include membrane rupture, uteroplacental insufficiency, fetal renal anomalies, and drugs that reduce fetal urine output. The FDA (2020) advised against nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs from 20 weeks because of fetal renal effects and oligohydramnios. Management depends on gestational age and cause and includes fetal surveillance, antenatal testing, and timing of delivery in selected cases.
Where it comes up
- Going past your due datePregnancy: Your Body
- Baby moving less: what to doPregnancy: Your Body
- When your water breaksGetting Ready for Birth
- Drinking enough waterPregnancy: Eating
- Back pain and sciaticaPregnancy: Your Body
What mothers here say about oligohydramnios
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Sources
- Phelan JP et al. — Amniotic fluid index measurements during pregnancy. Journal of Reproductive Medicine 1987
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration — Drug Safety Communication: avoid NSAIDs in pregnancy at 20 weeks or later, 2020