What are the causes of chronic amniotic fluid leakage?

Generally, the main causes of chronic amniotic fluid leakage include reduced elasticity of the fetal membranes, persistent abnormal uterine pressure, placental abnormalities, bacterial vaginosis, and gestational diabetes. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Reduced Elasticity of Fetal Membranes

Imbalanced nutrition during pregnancy and deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin C and zinc can reduce the elasticity and strength of the fetal membranes, making them prone to minor damage and resulting in chronic amniotic fluid leakage. Maintaining a balanced diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and other foods rich in vitamins and minerals can help enhance the resilience of the fetal membranes.

2. Persistent Abnormal Uterine Pressure

Multiple pregnancies or polyhydramnios (excessive amniotic fluid) can cause long-term high pressure within the uterus, continuously compressing the fetal membranes and causing damage, leading to chronic leakage. Regular monitoring of amniotic fluid volume and fetal condition is necessary. When required, fluid intake should be limited under a doctor's guidance to reduce intrauterine pressure.

3. Placental Abnormalities

Conditions such as placenta previa, where the placenta is positioned close to the cervical os, may cause abnormal pulling and pressure on the fetal membranes, increasing the risk of membrane rupture and resulting in chronic amniotic fluid leakage. Pregnant women should ensure adequate rest, avoid strenuous exercise and heavy physical labor, and undergo regular ultrasound examinations to monitor changes in placental position.

4. Bacterial Vaginosis

When bacterial vaginosis occurs, pathogens can invade the fetal membranes, compromising their integrity and reducing localized tensile strength, leading to chronic amniotic fluid leakage. Under medical guidance, medications such as metronidazole vaginal suppositories, clindamycin phosphate vaginal suppositories, and azithromycin dispersible tablets may be used to control infection and reduce damage to the fetal membranes.

5. Gestational Diabetes

Poorly controlled maternal blood glucose levels can lead to a high-glucose environment, potentially increasing amniotic fluid volume and affecting collagen fiber synthesis in the fetal membranes, thereby increasing membrane fragility and the likelihood of rupture causing chronic amniotic fluid leakage. Strict dietary control to reduce intake of high-sugar foods is necessary, and when required, medications such as insulin injection, aspart insulin injection, and lispro insulin injection may be used under medical supervision to regulate blood glucose levels.

In daily life, it is important to maintain external genital hygiene and avoid tub bathing and sexual intercourse; reduce actions that increase abdominal pressure, such as forceful coughing or excessive straining during constipation; closely monitor changes in amniotic fluid volume and seek medical attention promptly if abnormalities occur; and attend regular prenatal checkups to ensure a safe pregnancy.