Are you expecting? Feeling anxious just at the thought of a low amniotic fluid making your baby feel crammed in there? Don't worry, we've got your back! Here is everything you need to know about boosting baby's fluid levels and keeping them cozy. From understanding what causes low amniotic levels to learning how they can be cured, we’ve covered every aspect for you.
What Is Amniotic Fluid?
Let’s begin with the basics- What is amniotic fluid? Amniotic fluid is an incredible liquid that surrounds a developing fetus in the uterus. It acts as a cushion or shock absorber, protects against infections and injuries, maintains temperature control in the womb, and helps fetal growth.
The amount of amniotic fluid increases gradually after 12 weeks until it peaks around week 36. Typically measuring between 800 mL -1000 mL at this stage, lower than 300 mL by week 37 can cause complications during birth.
Causes of Low Amniotic Fluid Levels
Now that we have learned about what exactly amniotic fluids are let's learn why their deficiency occurs-
There are various reasons which may cause decreased production such as:
- Ruptured membranes (water breaking prematurely)
- Post-term pregnancy
- Preeclampsia
- Chronic placental insufficiency And some maternal conditions that reduce blood flow to the uterus—including high blood pressure – could also lead to reduced amounts of intrauterine/low stored up amnio-fluid.
But don't ask Doc google all alone for answers; As it needs specialized medical tests/diagnosis before having any definite justification.
Symptoms You Can Look For
As several women do not report any symptoms of low amnio-fluid before getting diagnosed through ultrasound mostly, However certain signs suggesting potential issues include:
Problems during labor might be causing variations in fetal heart rate or an abnormal position of the baby.
It is always best to check with your doctor, even for minor indications. The symptoms may vary based on several factors such as maternal BMI and period of pregnancy/ gestation weeks & level.
What Can Be Done To Boost Baby's Fluid Levels?
If you’ve made it this far, chances are great that you’re enthusiastic about getting your amniotic fluid levels boosted! Luckily there are numerous ways to treat low amniotic fluid levels in pregnant women:
Bed Rest Is Best
To begin with bed rest- which could be a mild to moderate form/intensity depending on your situation; can quickly help relieve some essential aspects and bring-up fluids-storage more effectively. One should focus towards a sedentary lifestyle, avoiding heavy physical strain or much activity.
Regular Monitoring Can Save Lives
You need regular monitoring by your OB-GYN when experiencing low-fluid-levels associated issues. As early detection increases the likelihood of preventing potential complications (such as cord compression/hypoxia), hence timely appointments can sure get things covered way before they intensify further.
Hydration Is The Key
One safe strategy – gentle hydration makes-amnio retention easier: You must drink plenty of water every day! Apart from thirst-induced intakes/taking care-of-other bodily needs like urination etc.' making frequent sips would increase total volume intake per hour sitting/(giving natural breaks for staying active) - This way one will easily achieve recommended limits without stressing themselves-out unnecessarily!
Also, opting for oral re-hydrating solutions like ORS can prove beneficial under specialist directions/guidance.
NOTE- Do not attempt drastic measures/pills/laxatives/supplements without seeking-least medical advice first-hand(preferably).
Amnioinfusion
An exciting technique called ‘amnio-infusion’ helps adding artificial amniotic fluid by delivering it into the uterus. A needle is used to added fluid via uterus externally, hence helping in retaining/ adjusting natural and artificial fluids as needed.
This technique is generally performed only if your doctor concludes that this will increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy outcome.
Medication/Growth Factors Therapy
Another possible remedy for increased amnio-protection includes the use of prostaglandin-which could be given orally or directly/via cervix under specialist supervision. The Biological stimulants act-like growth hormones-increasing-placental-function-leading-to-more-fluid-production/increase/preventing-complete-dryness/skinning.
In Conclusion - Boosting Baby's Fluid
Low amniotic levels are undoubtedly a great cause for concern among expecting mothers. But fortunately, many feasible methods exist for increasing unborn babies' fluid levels.
Methods such as bed rest or hydration can aid in returning the lowered volume within acceptable limits on account of early detection could prove life-saving. And with advanced medical techniques like medication, infusion pump etc., our possibilities seem limitless!
Remember always to check back up scheduled dossiers timely with maternal-fetal care clinical experts/doctor-giving you more frequent-even guidance/co-passengership through this wonderful-journey called- parenthood!
So until then,! Stay hydrated and don't let those low-amnio-levels worry you; there’s always hope when it comes to safeguarding yourself & the baby inside