To Evaluate the Relationship of Reduced Amniotic Fluid Volume in the Third Trimester with the Outcome of Pregnancy

The amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus within the uterus. It is essential for the normal growth and development of the musculoskeletal system, pulmonary system and the gastrointestinal system. It is also helpful in monitoring the progress of pregnancy and predicting fetal and maternal outcomes. Normal Amniotic fluid index (AFI) measured by ultrasonography is 8 to 25 centimetres. Decreased amniotic fluid volume is termed oligohydramnios (less than 8cm), whereas increased fluid volume (more than 25 cm) is termed hydramnios or polyhydramnios. Additionally, AFI 5.1 cm to 8 cm is called borderline oligohydramnios.

A prospective observational study was conducted on 50 antenatal patients in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of FMHS at SGT university over a period of 18 months. Patients were divided in two groups, those with AFI ≤5 cm called oligohydramnios and with AFI of 5.1 to 8 cm called borderline oligohydramnios. Outcome was studied in the form of mode of delivery, fetal heart rate variations, meconium staining and lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) for fetal distress, Apgar score at birth, birth weight, admissions in nursery and neonatal mortality.

With borderline oligohydramnios (AFI 5.1 to 8 cm) the adverse outcomes were also associated with higher perinatal morbidity in the form of low birth weight, fetal distress and higher NICU admissions as in oligohydramnios.