Oligohydramnios
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.
Oligohydramnios is a condition that causes you to have too little amniotic fluid during pregnancy. You may need to be treated in the hospital for problems caused by oligohydramnios. Your baby may need to be delivered, even if he or she is not full term. If you are discharged before your baby is born, you will need to watch for serious signs and symptoms.
DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Seek care immediately if:
- You have clear fluid leaking from your vagina.
- You have heavy bleeding or any bleeding from your vagina for more than 24 hours.
- You have vision changes or problems, such as blurred vision.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- Your baby is moving less than usual.
- You have a fever or chills.
- You have contractions before you are due.
- You have cramps, pressure in your abdomen, or a low backache.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
You may need tests every 1 to 3 weeks. Go to all follow-up visits. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
Care for yourself until delivery:
- Drink more water to stay hydrated. Ask your healthcare provider how much liquid to drink each day.
- Bed rest may be needed if you are not ready to deliver. Your healthcare provider may recommend bed rest for several weeks of your pregnancy.
Lower your risk for oligohydramnios in a future pregnancy:
- Do not smoke. Nicotine in cigarettes increases the risk for PROM or problems with the placenta. Nicotine also causes low birth weight and other medical problems for the baby. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help quitting.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and beans. Healthy foods can help you gain a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy, and prevent diabetes.
- Take prenatal vitamins as directed. The vitamins should contain at least 4,000 micrograms of folic acid. Folic acid helps prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. Your healthcare provider can help you choose a prenatal vitamin that is right for you.
- Drink liquids as directed. More liquid can help prevent dehydration and high blood pressure. Liquids can also help prevent the amniotic sac from rupturing (tearing). This is called premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Amniotic fluid can leak out of a torn amniotic sac.
- Control diabetes or other medical conditions. Diabetes can cause problems for your baby, such as too much weight gain. If you have diabetes, work with your healthcare provider to manage your blood sugar levels before and during your next pregnancy.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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