Association of Low Amniotic Fluid Index and Adverse Fetal Outcome at Term

Abstract

Background: Amniotic fluid plays a major role in the fetal growth and development by providing a suitable, protective low resistance environment for growth and development. The abnormalities of the fluid volume can thus interfere directly with the fetal development. Objective: To determine the association of low amniotic fluid index and adverse fetal outcome at term. Study Design: Prospective cohort study. Settings: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, DHQ hospital, Faisalabad Pakistan. Duration: Six months from 6^th October 2016 to 5^th April 2017. Methods: A total of 108 pregnant subjects, 54 each in group A (with amniotic fluid index ≤5 cm) and in group B (with amniotic fluid index >5), aged 18 to 40 years were included. Patients with h/o chronic hypertension, diabetes mellitus, multiple pregnancy, polyhydramnios and premature rupture of membranes were excluded. All cases were followed till delivery and outcome variables were noted. Results: The mean age of women in group A was 29.94 ± 5.52 years and in group B was 29.98 ± 6.09 years. The adverse fetal outcomes like IUGR was recorded in 19 (35.19%) in group A while 5 (9.26%) in group B, low birth weight was recorded in 15 (27.78%) versus 8 (14.81%) of the newborns whereas APGAR score <7 at 5 minutes in 15 (27.78%) versus 6 (11.11%) of the neonates respectively. NICU admission was required in 14 (25.93%) of babies in group A compared to 7 (12.96%) in group B. Meconium-stained liquor was seen in 19 (35.19%) versus 6 (11.11%) of patients in group A and B respectively. P value was <0.05 and relative risk <1 which was statistically significant. Conclusion: This study concluded that low amniotic fluid index (≤5 cm) is associated with adverse fetal outcome at term.