Oligohydramnios

Low level of amniotic fluid during pregnancy; below the 5th centile for the gestational age

Aetiology

  • Anything that reduces the production of urine, blocks output from the fetus, or a rupture of the membranes (allowing amniotic fluid to leak) can lead to oligohydramnios
  • Main causes are:
    • Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes
    • Placental insufficiency
    • Non-functioning fetal kidneys
    • Obstructive uropathy
    • Genetic/chromosomal anomalies
    • Viral infections

Investigations

Ultrasound

  • Amniotic fluid index (AFI) or maximum pool depth (MPD)

Management

  • Depends on underlying cause