Amniotic Fluid Disorders

Amniotic Fluid Disorders & Amniocentesis Treatment – Zenith Hospital, Nagpur

In the womb, the baby is surrounded and protected by amniotic fluid. Initially, this fluid is mostly water from the mother, but as pregnancy progresses, it is replaced by the baby’s urine. Amniotic fluid is vital for the baby’s growth and contains nutrients, hormones, and infection-fighting antibodies.

At Zenith Hospital, Dr. Mansi Thakur provides advanced care for managing both low and excess amniotic fluid disorders. With state-of-the-art diagnostics, regular monitoring, and expert decision-making regarding delivery timing, induction, or cesarean section, we ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Your pregnancy deserves expert care – trust Dr. Mansi Thakur, Zenith Hospital, Nagpur for safe and specialized management of amniotic fluid disorders and amniocentesis procedures.

Functions of Amniotic Fluid

Acts as a cushion, protecting the baby from external pressure.
Maintains a stable temperature for the fetus.
Provides antibodies to help fight infections.
Supports the development of the lungs, digestive system, and muscles.
Prevents umbilical cord compression, ensuring proper oxygen and nutrient supply.
Aids in smooth fetal movements.

Amniotic fluid levels are usually highest around 34–36 weeks, then gradually decrease as delivery approaches.

Disorders of Amniotic Fluid

1. Oligohydramnios (Low Amniotic Fluid)

Oligohydramnios is diagnosed when the amniotic fluid index (AFI) is less than 5 cm on ultrasound.

Possible causes include:

Rupture of membranes (leaking fluid)
High blood pressure or diabetes in the mother
Lupus or autoimmune disorders
Twin or multiple pregnancies
Placental problems
Unknown reasons

Risks of oligohydramnios:

In early pregnancy (first 6 months): higher chance of birth defects, miscarriage, preterm birth, or neonatal death.
In late pregnancy: increased risk of growth restriction, labor complications, and need for cesarean section.

Investigations & Monitoring at Zenith Hospital:

Non-stress test (NST): to check heart rate and movement of the baby
Biophysical profile (BPP): ultrasound to check breathing, tone, movement, and fluid levels
Daily fetal movement count
Color Doppler scan for blood flow in the baby

In severe cases, labor may be induced or amnioinfusion (infusing fluid into the amniotic sac during labor) may be required. Sometimes, a cesarean delivery is recommended if the baby shows distress.

2. Polyhydramnios (Excess Amniotic Fluid)

Polyhydramnios is diagnosed when the AFI is more than 25 cm.

Causes:

Fetal abnormalities such as:
- Duodenal or esophageal atresia, diaphragmatic hernia, gastroschisis
- Anencephaly, spina bifida, meningomyelocele
- Achondroplasia (bone growth disorder)
- Fetal lung abnormalities
- Hydrops fetalis
- Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome
Maternal disorders such as uncontrolled diabetes or other systemic illnesses

Complications of polyhydramnios:

Preterm labor
Premature rupture of membranes
Placental abruption
Stillbirth
Postpartum hemorrhage
Abnormal fetal positions
Umbilical cord prolapse

Investigations & Care at Zenith Hospital:

Regular ultrasound monitoring of amniotic fluid
Testing for maternal diabetes and infections
Close observation for pregnancy complications