Oligohydramnios – effects on perinatal outcome

Abstract

Introduction. Quantification of amniotic fluid is an important component of the biophysical profile in USG evaluation of perinatal outcome. Oligoamnios is a clinical condition characterised by amniotic fluid index (AFI) < 5. It often increases the risk of fetus distress and accompanies a wide range of reproductive disorders including anomalies of fetus and disorders of mother, fetus and placenta. Aim of study. The aim of study was to analyse the fetal outcome in pregnant women with oligoamnios at term. Methods and materials. This is a prospective study of 30 antenatal women with gestational ages between 34 and 41 weeks. All women enrolled were subjected to history taking, examination and AFI estimation. Results. Fetal distress was higher in patients with oligohydramnios. The congenital anomalies of kidney and urinary tract of the fetus were discovered in 16,6 % , intrauterine cytomegalovirus infection – 23,3 %, low birth weight in 13,3 %, APGAR score < 7 in 10 % out of 30 patients. There are several additional complications to be aware of during the gestation complicated by oligoamnios. These include an increased risk of cesarean delivery, fetal heart rate decelerations, or umbilical cord compression. Conclusion. In conclusion, oligohydramnios is a serious clinical condition that increases the risk of perinatal complications. It frequently creates premises for the development of intrauterine growth retardation in addition to many pathological conditions, including congenital anomalies of kidney and urinary tract, low birth weight, CMV infection. Therefore, newborns with oligohydramnios demand intensive fetal surveillance and proper antepartum and intrapartum care.