Risks and Complications From Oligohydramnios Certain medications- some medications such as medications used to treat high blood pressure may cause Oligohydramnios.Maternal Complication- Various factors including maternal dehydration, preeclampsia, diabetes, hypertension, and chronic hypoxia can contribute to low amniotic fluid levels.Post term pregnancy- A pregnancy that goes over 42 weeks may lead to low levels of amniotic fluid.Leaking or rupture of membranes- If there is a tear in the membrane, it may cause a gush or slow constant trickle of fluid.Placental problems- If the baby is not able to receive enough blood nutrients from the placenta, then the baby may stop recycling fluid.Birth Defects- If there are problems with the baby's kidneys or urinary tract, the baby may be producing not enough urine which, leads to low levels of amniotic fluid.When they are known, the general causes of oligohydramnios are due to: Often times the causes of oligohydramnios is unknown. In order for the amniotic fluid to perform the necessary functions, adequate volume of the fluid is required. During the second trimester the baby will begin to breathe and swallow the amniotic fluid. The fetus will move and turn in the uterus with the aid of the amniotic fluid. Then, around 20 weeks, the fluid mainly becomes fetal urine. Initially, the fluid is made up of water. It is produced quickly after the amniotic sac is formed which is about 12 days after conception. Amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus in the uterus and performs various functions for the fetus: cushions and protects baby from external trauma maintains a steady and safe temperature around the fetus helps develop lungs, digestive system, muscles, and bones and keeps the umbilical cord from being squeezed. About Oligohydramniosĭuring pregnancy, the body produces a fluid that is crucial to the development and survival of the fetus called amniotic fluid. Although, oligohydramnios can be treated and maintained, if not caught early on it can lead to detrimental consequences for the baby. About 8% of pregnant women can have low levels of amniotic fluid and about 4% are diagnosed with oligohydramnios.

Oligohydramnios is a condition that occurs during pregnancy in which there is too little amniotic fluid.

Symptoms of low amniotic fluid