Amniotic fluid volume assessment in pregnancy
Who gets the test?
The volume of amniotic fluid
is assessed every time your baby has an ultrasound. This is the standard way to
check your child's health. Your doctor will also perform this test during a
biophysical profile.
What does the test do
Amniotic fluid surrounds your
baby in the uterus. It protects your baby and helps his lungs, digestive system
and muscles develop. While you are pregnant, your doctor will monitor your
amniotic fluid levels. If they are too low or too high, you are more likely to
get complications such as preterm labor. It may also mean that there is a
problem with your baby or the placenta.
During a routine ultrasound,
your doctor or ultrasound specialist will check your amniotic fluid level.
There are several ways to estimate the volume of amniotic fluid. These include
the amniotic fluid index and deep pocket measurements.
How the test works
Your doctor or lab technician
will estimate the amount of amniotic fluid by measuring the fluid pockets
during an ultrasound. There is no risk to you or your child. Fluid is measured
more frequently in twins than in singletons.
What you need to know about test results
This test is common for women
who are pregnant with twins, but the results are less reliable than for women
with one child.
- Low levels of amniotic fluid are more dangerous in early pregnancy. They may be a sign that your child is growing too slowly. If it occurs late in pregnancy, it may be a sign of placental insufficiency. Your doctor may want to monitor your pregnancy more closely.
- High levels of amniotic fluid often do not cause problems. But high levels increase the risk of preterm labor or growth problems. You may need more frequent ultrasounds. In some cases, medications or procedures to drain excess fluid may help.
How often do you test during pregnancy
Your doctor or technician will check your amniotic fluid every time you have an ultrasound. If you have problems during your pregnancy, you may need more frequent check-ups.