Why does the amniotic fluid decrease

Many women do not actually pay much attention to the issue of amniotic fluid when they are pregnant. But everyone should know that amniotic fluid creates a healthy and safe environment for the fetus, and the substances in the amniotic fluid are also very important for the development of the fetus. If pregnant mothers find that their amniotic fluid is decreasing, they should take it seriously. But why does the amount of amniotic fluid decrease?

1. Rupture of the amniotic membrane leads to low amniotic fluid

Even a small tear in the amniotic membrane will allow some amniotic fluid to leak out. This can happen at any stage of your pregnancy. However, it is more common near birth. You may discover leakage yourself if you notice your underwear is wet, or your doctor may discover it during an examination.

Rupture of membranes increases the risk of infection for you and your baby because it provides a pathway for bacteria to enter the amniotic cavity. Sometimes, a small tear will heal on its own, and the fluid will stop leaking and return to normal levels. This usually happens if the leak was caused by amniocentesis.

2. Placental problems lead to low amniotic fluid

If there is a problem with the placenta, such as partial abruption, the placenta cannot supply enough blood and nutrients to the baby, resulting in the interruption of amniotic fluid circulation in the fetus.

3. Certain diseases lead to low amniotic fluid

Certain diseases can also cause low amniotic fluid, such as chronic high blood pressure, preeclampsia, diabetes, and lupus.

4. Twins or multiple births cause oligohydramnios

If you are pregnant with twins or more, you may also have oligohydramnios. Oligohydramnios may also occur in cases of twin-twin transfusion syndrome, where one baby has too little amniotic fluid and the other has too much.

5. Fetal malformation leads to oligohydramnios

If you are diagnosed with oligohydramnios in early or mid-pregnancy, it may mean that your baby will have birth defects. If your baby has no kidneys, has abnormal kidney development (called Potter syndrome), or has a blocked urethra, he or she may not produce enough urine to maintain the amount of amniotic fluid. Congenital heart defects can also cause this problem.

The amount of amniotic fluid reflects the development of the fetus to a certain extent. Low amniotic fluid will lead to less space for the fetus to move around, which will cause restricted fetal growth and intrauterine distress. In severe cases, it will cause fetal malformations. If there is too little amniotic fluid, the pregnant mother must pay enough attention to it and consult a professional doctor to take appropriate treatment measures.