This is a condition describing decreased water in the womb surrounding the baby.

Reasons:
This could happen in a post-dated pregnancy i.e. when the expected date of delivery has been crossed. Leakage of fluid (PPROM) may also be responsible. It may also be seen along with anomalies of the baby especially involving the kidneys. Sometimes however no cause is found.

Symptoms:
On clinical examination the height of the womb appears to be less than what is expected for that stage of pregnancy. A definite diagnosis is made on ultrasonography during which major anomalies of the baby are also ruled out.

Precautions:
Regular check ups with the doctor during pregnancy help in early detection of the condition.

Treatment:
Essentially depends on the reason for oligohydramnios. If pregnancy is prolonged, delivery needs to be planned. If the baby is severely deformed, pregnancy should be terminated. If there is leakage of fluid, early delivery or methods of fluid replacement need to be sought. If no cause is found, hydration therapy (drinking a lot of water) and amnioinfusion (injecting saline from outside) may be attempted. Frequent sonography examinations need to be done as a part of the follow up.