Low Amniotic Fluid at 32 Weeks: What to Expect & When to Worry

Question
32 wks along and started feeling pressure, thought I might be dialated.  Went to er and had ultra sound.  Seems that for the first time the fluid is low.  I am going to my OBGYN tomorrow.  Should I be worried.  Everything has been fine unil now. Test showed that there is no leak.  From reading online I see that the baby swallowing the fluid is normal but that low amnio fluid can cause compression to the amby. cord. and damage the baby.

Answer
Emily,
Since all of your scans were fine up until now, I would think you have a small tear in your amniotic sack causing the low fluid. Some babies have low fluid from early on because they can't produce urine and then you've got an even bigger problem. I don't think there's anything going on with your baby so thats good. If your fluid continues to drop your doctor might start considering induction although most try to hold off until 34 weeks at the earliest. If the fluids do get to low you do risk cord compression, which cuts off oxygen to the baby and the baby passes away. If you fluid gets down this low, your doctor woden't risk it and would induce you. A baby is better off born at 32 weeks and endure a few weeks in the NICU rather than risk a cord compression. Try not to worry( I know it's hard) and discuss your concerns with your doctor. She'll do what's best for you and your baby. Good luck to you Emily and let me know what the doctor says! If you have any more questions please don';t hesitate to ask!

April

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