What does it mean when there is too little amniotic fluid at seven months of pregnancy, and what should be done?

Low amniotic fluid at seven months of pregnancy may be caused by insufficient water intake, mild placental dysfunction, fetal urinary system developmental abnormalities, gestational hypertension, or gestational diabetes. Generally, it can be managed through general treatments, medication, and other methods. If abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Insufficient water intake: Inadequate daily water intake during pregnancy may lead to reduced maternal blood volume and impaired kidney filtration function, resulting in decreased amniotic fluid production. Water intake should be increased immediately, with 1500-2000 milliliters of warm water consumed daily in multiple small portions. Additionally, consuming more soups and fluid-rich foods can help promote amniotic fluid production.

2. Mild placental dysfunction: Decreased placental blood circulation efficiency weakens its material exchange function, leading to insufficient blood and nutrition supply to the fetus, reduced urine production, and consequently decreased amniotic fluid. Enhanced fetal heart monitoring, increased frequency of prenatal checkups, and dietary supplementation with protein-rich foods are recommended. If necessary, intravenous nutritional fluids may be administered under a doctor's guidance to improve placental function.

3. Fetal urinary system developmental abnormalities: Underdeveloped fetal kidneys or urinary tract obstructions may hinder urine production or excretion, reducing amniotic fluid as its primary source is lost. This may be accompanied by structural abnormalities observed on fetal kidney ultrasound. Treatment plans should be developed according to the severity of the abnormality under medical guidance. Mild cases may require close monitoring until delivery, while severe cases may necessitate fetal prognosis evaluation and possible termination of pregnancy.

4. Gestational hypertension: Elevated blood pressure during pregnancy causes systemic small vessel spasms, affecting placental blood vessels and resulting in insufficient blood flow. This leads to fetal intrauterine hypoxia, reduced urine production, and decreased amniotic fluid. Symptoms may include elevated blood pressure, proteinuria, and leg edema. Doctors generally recommend medications such as labetalol tablets, nifedipine tablets, or methyldopa tablets to control blood pressure, along with intravenous fluids to increase blood volume and improve placental circulation.

5. Gestational diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar levels may impair placental function and affect fetal urine production, leading to decreased amniotic fluid. Symptoms may include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and abnormal weight gain. Treatment involves insulin injections under medical supervision to control blood sugar levels, dietary adjustments, reduced intake of high-sugar foods, and regular monitoring of blood sugar and amniotic fluid levels.

In daily life, pregnant women should ensure adequate hydration, maintain a balanced diet, and avoid fatigue. Regular ultrasound examinations should be conducted to monitor amniotic fluid levels and fetal development, with close attention to changes in fetal movement. Immediate medical attention is necessary if significant reduction in fetal movement, abdominal pain, vaginal discharge, or other symptoms occur.