What is Oligohydramnios (Low Amniotic Fluid)?
Oligohydramnios means there is less amniotic fluid (water) than there should be around your baby.
Your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid during pregnancy. A healthy amount of fluid protects and supports the baby, but low fluid can be a sign of pregnancy or health problems.
How Common is Oligohydramnios?
This is a common health problem in pregnancy:
- It happens in about four percent of pregnancies.
- It is more common at the end of pregnancy, especially as you pass your due date.
How Will I Know if I Have Oligohydramnios?
Your doctor will measure your amniotic fluid during an ultrasound. If you have health or pregnancy problems, they may measure your fluid regularly at the end of your pregnancy.
What Are the Signs of Oligohydramnios?
Most people will not know they have low fluid. If you do have signs, they may include:
- Leaking water
- Feeling fewer baby movements
- A belly that measures small for how pregnant you are
What Will Happen if I Have Oligohydramnios?
- If this happens early in pregnancy, we will recommend extra ultrasounds and close monitoring.
- If this happens at the end of pregnancy, we will recommend inducing labor.
What Should I Do if I Am Told I Have Oligohydramnios?
This can sound worrying, but most people with oligohydramnios have healthy babies. Be sure to ask questions to learn what is best for you and your baby.
Complications
