Definitions

Reduced volume of amniotic fluid in utero of less than 300ml. This occurs in around 4.5% of pregnancies, however severe cases are much lower around 0.7% of pregnancies (Payne, J. 2016). It can be caused by maternal dehydration, reduced foetal blood volume, and reduced foetal urine output among other factors. In most cases, this condition is monitored using expectant management which involves regular scans where the deepest pool of amniotic fluid is measured by the sonographer, and increased appointments with your Midwife or Obstetrician where they will measure your bump to make sure your baby is growing as expected over time.