The effect of abnormal amniotic fluid volume (oligohydramnios) on maternal and fetal outcome: an observational study

Abstract

Aims: To study the effects of abnormal amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) on maternal and fetal outcome. Material and Methods: This prospective observational study was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Patna Medical College and Hospital Patna, Bihar India, from November 2017 to February 2019. All pregnant women having singleton pregnancy with cephalic presentation,at POG 34-40 weeks, presenting with abnormal liquor  (oligohydramnios ) AFI less than 5,were included in the present study.Results: 85% of patients were in 20-30 years age group and 9% patients were in above 30 years age group. Mean maternal age was 23.61 years. Incidence of oligohydramnios was more in primipara (55%) in our study. And operative morbidity was also more in primipara 54.55%. Most common cause of Oligohydramnios is idiopathic (55%). Second commonest cause is PIH (28.5%). Operative morbidity is highest in PIH (52.64%)). Operative morbidity was significantly higher in NST non-reactive (58.62%) group than NST reactive (27.46%) group. All patients underwent Doppler study. 10% were found with fetoplacental insufficiency. Most common reason to perform caesarean section  was fetal distress which was either due to cord compression or IUGR. Oligohydramnios was related to higher rate of growth retardation and NICU admission.Conclusion: Oligohydramnios is frequent occurrence and demands intensive fetal surveillance and proper antepartum and intrapartum care. Due to intrapartum complication and high rate of perinatal morbidity and mortality, rates of caesarean section are rising, but decision between vaginal delivery and caesarean section should be well balanced so that unnecessary maternal morbidity be  prevented and on the  other side timely intervention can reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality.

Keywords: Oligohydramnios, Maternal Outcome, Fetal Outcome.