Oligohydramnios is a condition that can occur during pregnancy. Oligohydramnios is marked by a deficient amount of fluid in the amniotic sac. Amnioinfusion is the method used to add fluid to the amniotic sac. It is a treatment used to balance the amniotic levels in the sac surrounding the baby. It is used to treat heart rate changes due to cord compressions. The need for amnioinfusion can by indicated by variable decelerations seen on the cardiotocograph, (which is another name for the electronic fetal heart monitor). In the event of extreme or severe oligohydramnios, amnioinfusion may be done to prevent cord compression preventatively.
The amniotic sac is a thin walled sac containing fluid produced by the fetus which surrounds the baby in the womb. The function of the amniotic sac is to protect the baby and allow free movement.
Amnioinfusion, although extremely helpful and beneficial to the baby, it is a procedure that is not without consequence. There are also complications that could occur because of an amnioinfusion. These complications could include preterm labor, premature rupture of the membranes, umbilical cord prolapse, prolonged labor or chorioamnionitis (which is an infection of the membranes).
WHAT CAN CAUSE OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS?
The cause of oligohydramnios can sometimes be unknown. With that said, below are some of the factors which may play a role in the condition:
- High Blood Pressure or Diabetes Before Pregnancy
- Post Term Pregnancy
- Medications To Treat High Blood Pressure
- Premature Rupture Of The Membranes
WHY CORD COMPRESSION CAN BE DANGEROUS
In the world of HIE, or hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, umbilical cord compression can be extremely problematic if it is not remedied. One of the reasons being is because the umbilical cord is responsible for providing the baby with needed blood and oxygen to survive. If there are problems with blood and oxygen flow then the baby, in some cases can develop HIE.
HIE in the most basic sense is a reduction of blood and oxygen which can lead to a brain injury. The fetal heart monitor, which was mentioned earlier is a device that can be used to assess fetal well-being.
Thanks for reading, from your friends at HIE Resource Place.