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Oligohydramnios

When Amniotic Fluid Is Too Low

By Laurie Dove

Either way, it is a condition that can be lethal, because Baby needs adequate fluid to develop lungs.

"Without enough amniotic fluid, Baby can't make the transfer from umbilical cord to breathing air," Roberts says. The lungs are in their greatest stage of development between 16 and 25 weeks, but each day they have to mature in adequate amniotic fluid means greater function.

For Howard, delivering her baby at 36 weeks didn't pose a significant risk because of baby's lung development, she says. "The doctor told me [the baby's] lungs should be fully developed and that she didn't foresee any problems from delivering early," Howard says.

Once oligohydramnios is diagnosed, decisions about the baby's delivery need to be made. Often, this means weighing the risks of inducing labor versus leaving the baby in-utero until it reaches greater maturity. There is some variance in the medical community about when is "long enough," Roberts says, but typically, if a baby has too little fluid near term, "it is reasonable to consider that baby will do okay if born." For Roberts, that means waiting until 37 weeks. For others, it can mean delivering as early as 34 weeks, he says.

Howard gave birth to a healthy baby, Jessica, weighing little more than 5 pounds. Now at 3 years old, Jessica's development is "right on track," says Howard. "She is sharp as a tack."

Like many others who experience oligohydramnios, Howard didn't have the complication when she became pregnant two years later with her third child.

According to the American Journal of Obstetrics, pregnant women who find themselves diagnosed with oligohydramnios should pay particular attention to eating a balanced diet and receiving regular prenatal care.

"The best treatment is good care," Roberts says.

Want to see more?

• Guide to Pregnancy Tests and Procedures
• Just in Case: Making a Plan for Cesarean
• Your Preemie's First Year