Amniotic Fluid Level Dropped After Amnio
Two weeks after an amnio, my amniotic fluid level dropped. The diagnosis was a leak in the amniotic sac, which has since healed. However, a week after discharge from the hospital the level was still low. The baby appears to be developing well. What does a low fluid level indicate and can it harm the baby's development? Is it indicative of another problem that the doctors might be missing?
Question:Peg Plumbo CNM
Peg Plumbo has been a certified nurse-midwife (CNM) since 1976. She has assisted at over 1,000 births and currently teaches in the... Read more
It is hard to comment specifically without knowing how far along you are, but in general low amniotic fluid volume isn't necessarily the result of leaking, even after amniocentesis.
Sometimes a very low level may cause fetal developmental problems such as musculoskeletal problems because the fetus is unable to move around enough. I would recommend that you seek the care of a perinatologist (an OB/GYN specializing in the care of complications of pregnancy).
This may all resolve itself soon, and ultrasounds should continue to be done to rule out structural problems and keep a check on fluid levels. Some kidney and urinary tract anomalies have been associated with abnormal fluid volumes, but if that is not the case, I would not be overly concerned.
About a cup of fluid is produced every hour in pregnancy, so these levels should come up soon. However, it might be a good idea to seek a second opinion.
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