Any change in the color or odor of the amniotic fluid may be a sign of a potential problem. Some potential color alterations and the possible etiology are:. Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It can cause a breathing problem called meconium aspiration syndrome that occurs when the meconium enters the lungs. In some cases, babies will require treatment after they are born.
Amniotic fluid is responsible for :. Normally, the level of amniotic fluid is at its highest around 36 of pregnancy, measuring around 1 quart. This level decreases as birth nears. When the waters break, the amniotic sac tears. The amniotic fluid contained within the sac then begins to leak out via the cervix and vagina. The waters usually break toward the end of the first stage of labor. When this happens, it is time to contact the health provider as delivery may be imminent.
Polyhydramnios, also referred to as hydramnios or amniotic fluid disorder, is when there is too much fluid. Low levels of amniotic fluid, referred to as oligohydramnios, occur in 4 percent of all pregnancies and 12 percent of post-date pregnancies. Oligohydramnios is present when the amniotic fluid index AFI seen on ultrasound measures less than 5 cm a normal index is cm and the maximum vertical pocket MVP is less than 2 cm.
This may be evident in cases of leaking fluid from a tear in the amniotic membranes, measuring small for a certain stage of pregnancy or if the fetus is not moving as much as it would be expected to. It may also occur in mothers with a history of any of the following medical conditions:. Oligohydramnios can happen during any trimester but is a more concerning problem during the first 6 months of pregnancy. During that time, there is a higher risk of birth defects, loss of pregnancy, preterm birth, or neonatal loss of life.
The rest of the pregnancy will be monitored closely to ensure normal development is taking place. In some cases, doctors may decide that labor will need to be induced, in order to protect the mother or the child. Amnioinfusion the infusion of saline into the uterus , increasing maternal fluids, and bed rest may also be necessary. There is a higher chance of labor complications, due to the risk of umbilical cord compression.
Mother has diabetes or high blood pressure. Symptoms At birth, symptoms of meconium aspiration include an infant who becomes limp or has: Bluish or greenish skin color. Fast, labored breathing or difficulty breathing respiratory distress. Low heart rate before birth fetal distress. Not breathing. Diagnosis During labor, your baby is hooked up to a fetal monitor.
Order a chest X-ray to look for patches or streaks of meconium on the lungs. Prevention If your water breaks at home, let us know if the amniotic fluid has green or brown stains or streaks. For a healthy pregnancy: Get good prenatal care. Follow a healthy diet. Do not smoke. Avoid alcohol and drugs. Avoid exposure to infections. Manage your medical conditions. Treatment If your baby has signs of meconium aspiration but is active and crying after birth, no treatment is usually needed.
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Carnegie South: Carnegie Hill: Carnegie South Carnegie Hill. What does amniotic fluid do? What color should amniotic fluid be? Can there be too little or too much amniotic fluid?
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