Association between Oligohydramnios and Placental Lesions and Their Effect on Fetal Growth

Abstract

Background: The amniotic sac, which houses the amniotic fluid that is a clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds the foetus throughout pregnancy. This environment supports the foetus' natural growth and development.Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between oligohydramnios and different placental pathological lesions and its effect on fetal growth during pregnancy. Patients and method: This single cohort descriptive study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University through the period from September 2020 to September 2022. A total of 48 pregnant women presented by oligohydramnios. Results: Neonates with isolated oligohydramnios had lower birth weights as a defining feature and a higher rate of neonatal morbidity with low Apgar score. They were admitted more often to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Oligohydramnios is linked to a higher rate of surgical delivery and, consequently, a higher rate of maternal morbidity. Conclusion: Oligohydramnios without fetal structural and chromosomal abnormalities and in the absence of known maternal disease is associated with unfavourable neonatal outcomes as well as lesions caused by placental vascular malperfusion. We believe that it belongs to a spectrum of "placental insufficiency" (probably in a milder form than preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction).