Oligohydramnios is a condition in which there is less quantity of amniotic fluid. It is commonly seen in maternal diabetics.

Amniotic fluid is a fluid surrounding the baby to protect the child. The volume of fluid reaches up to 800-1000ml at 36 to 38 weeks. Babies usually swallow the fluid and this is excreted through the kidney.

It is associated with other fetal anomalies like

• Gastrointestinal abnormalities like esophageal atresia, duodenal atresia, facial cleft, neck masses and tracheoesophageal fistula.
• Chromosomal abnormalities like Down’s syndrome, Edwards syndrome.
• Neurological abnormalities like anencephaly.
• Multiple pregnancy.
• Chorioangioma of the placenta.
• Cardiac or kidney problems in mother.
• Maternal infections with rubella, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, syphilis.

Symptoms of Polyhydramnios

• Abdomainl pain.
  

• Heartburn.

• Constipation.
• Swollen legs.
• Varicose veins.
• Large for dates on examaintion.

Polyhydramnios are at risk of other problems like cord prolapse, placental abruption and fetal death.

Tests and diagnosis

• Abdominal examaintion.
• Glucose tolerance test, blood sugar level to determine diabetes.
• Ultrasound scan confirms the diagnosis.

Treatment

• Amnioreduction.
• Low salt diet.