NAN-HG-8
Fluid
By Chinenye Offor
Abuja, Oct. 13, 2016 (NAN) Dr Adaora Ukoh, an Abuja-based Gynaecologist, has advised pregnant women with low amniotic fluid to constantly go for checkups to avoid complications.
Ukoh made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja.
She described low amniotic fluid as a condition in pregnancy characterised by a deficiency of amniotic fluid to protect the embryo.
According to her, the amount of amniotic fluid reflects the baby’s urine output which is an essential gauge of the baby’s wellbeing.
The gynaecologist explained that amniotic fluid provides a cushion that protects the baby from injury, allows growth, movement and development during pregnancy.
She also said that during pregnancy the amniotic fluid keeps the umbilical cord from being compacted between the baby and the uterine wall and also helps to maintain constant temperature in the womb.
Ukoh, however, said that chronic high blood pressure, use of certain medications, ruptured fetal membranes could predispose pregnant women to low amniotic fluid.
She also attributed the condition to multiple foetus, placenta peeling away from the inner wall of the uterus either partially or completely before delivery.
The expert noted that some health conditions in babies such as urinary tract and kidney problem, genetic disorder, as well as limited growth could cause the condition.
She then advised the treatment of low amniotic fluid to begin with drinking of more fluid, especially water in order to increase the liquid in the body.
She also suggested the use of amnion fusion, which is putting salty water into the uterus through the cervix by doctors in order to improve the amount of fluid in the womb.
She also recommended delivery of the baby early either by induced labour or Caesarean Section in dealing with the condition, saying it was key to saving the life of the baby. (NAN)
CSO/HA
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(Edited by Hadiza Mohammed-Aliyu)