Tips to increase amniotic fluid during pregnancy

Amniotic fluid supports a developing foetus in the womb and right levels of this fluid is essential to protect a foetus. Sometimes, amniotic fluid levels can be too low posing serious risks but by taking certain steps a person can increase the fluid level. Read on to know more.

How Much Amniotic Fluid Is Needed for Normal Delivery?

The level of amniotic fluid can vary with different stages of pregnancy. The right amount of amniotic fluid needed for normal delivery depends on several factors, such as the mother’s pelvic shape, her contractions, the size and position of the baby, etc.

During 32-34 weeks, the fluid level may increase to 800 ml or more, and from 34 weeks till delivery, the fluid level decreases to about 400 ml. However, having amniotic fluid in the range of 500-1200 ml is important for normal delivery. Having too much or too little of the fluid can lead to pregnancy complications.

Causes of Low Amniotic Fluid

The causes of low amniotic fluid or oligohydramnios include:

• If you have chronic diabetes or hypertension

• If your water breaks

• If you are on medications like angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

• If the foetus has restricted growth

• If the baby has congenital problems relating to kidneys or urinary tract

• If your placenta peels away from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery and the baby doesn’t get enough oxygen and nutrients

Risks of Having Low Amniotic Fluid

If there’s not enough amniotic fluid in your body, you have certain risks, such as —

• Preterm birth

If the amniotic fluid is below the normal range, it can lead to premature contractions, and the baby will be born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.

• Foetal distress

The baby becomes distressed due to insufficient amniotic fluid, causing foetal distress during delivery.

• Restricted foetal growth

Amniotic fluids help the baby to move freely inside the womb. If the fluid gets reduced, the baby doesn’t get enough space to move, thereby restricting its growth.

• Compression of the umbilical cord

There is a risk of the umbilical cord getting compressed, due to which the baby may not get sufficient oxygen and nutrients.

• Meconium aspiration

This is a condition when the baby inhales meconium (faecal matter), leading to respiratory problems. When there’s not enough fluid in your body, the baby is likely to pass meconium into the amniotic fluid, causing meconium aspiration.

Tips To Increase Amniotic Fluid

1. Increase your water intake, as this is one of the easiest ways to increase the amniotic fluid level. Consume lots of water throughout the day.

2. Consume fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumber, spinach, lettuce, radish, cauliflower, broccoli, tomatoes, watermelons, muskmelons, strawberries, grapefruits, etc.

3. Alcohol causes dehydration and reduces the amniotic fluid level. So, avoid consuming alcohol during pregnancy, as it is also harmful to the baby.

4. Avoid diuretics that cause excessive urination, as they can dehydrate your body and decrease the amniotic fluid in your body.

5. Do some light exercise every day, such as walking. Regular workouts help improve blood flow to the placenta and uterus, thereby increasing the level of amniotic fluid.