What impact does low amniotic fluid have on the fetus?

Oct 15, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
In general, low amniotic fluid may lead to fetal distress and hypoxia, restricted fetal growth, increased risk of fetal malformations, higher likelihood of abnormal fetal position, and neonatal complications. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Pregnant women should undergo regular prenatal checkups to detect and manage oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) in a timely manner.

Generally, low amniotic fluid may lead to fetal distress and hypoxia, restricted fetal growth, increased risk of fetal malformations, higher likelihood of abnormal fetal position, and postnatal complications. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific details are as follows:

1. Fetal Distress and Hypoxia

Amniotic fluid provides a crucial environment for the fetus within the uterus, offering space for movement and buffering external pressures. When amniotic fluid is insufficient, the fetus's range of motion becomes limited, increasing the risk of umbilical cord compression, which can lead to fetal distress and hypoxia.

2. Restricted Fetal Growth

Amniotic fluid ensures adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen to support normal fetal development. Insufficient amniotic fluid may reduce the availability of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, thereby impairing growth velocity and resulting in intrauterine growth restriction.

3. Increased Risk of Fetal Malformations

Low amniotic fluid levels may restrict fetal movement in the uterus, increasing the likelihood of abnormalities such as limb adhesions and joint contractures. Additionally, reduced amniotic fluid may impair fetal lung development, leading to developmental abnormalities.

4. Increased Risk of Abnormal Fetal Position

Insufficient amniotic fluid may limit the fetus’s ability to shift positions, preventing it from assuming the optimal birthing position. This increases the risk of abnormal fetal presentation, complicating labor and delivery.

5. Induction of Postnatal Complications

Low amniotic fluid may cause prolonged fetal hypoxia in utero, leading to postnatal complications such as hypoglycemia and respiratory disorders. Furthermore, reduced amniotic fluid may impair the newborn’s thermoregulation, increasing the risk of infection after birth.

Pregnant women are advised to undergo regular prenatal checkups to detect and manage oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid) early. Under medical guidance, measures such as increasing fluid intake, intravenous hydration, and oxygen therapy may help improve placental blood circulation and increase amniotic fluid volume.

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