Publication:

Maternal and fetal outcome in oligohydramnios diagnosed at or after 34 weeks of gestational age: a case-control study

Background Oligohydramnios, a deficiency in amniotic fluid volume diagnosed at or after 34 weeks of gestation, is a common obstetric dilemma. While historically linked to adverse outcomes, optimal management remains controversial particularly in isolated cases, balancing the risks of prematurity against intrauterine compromise. Aim was to compare the maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnancy with oligohydramnios diagnosed at or after 34 weeks of gestation with those of normal amniotic fluid index (AFI).

Methods A prospective case-control study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Al-Ameen Medical College and Hospital, Vijayapura, from February 2024 to January 2026. A total of 102 pregnant women were included, with 51 cases of oligohydramnios and 51 matched controls with normal AFI. All participants underwent detailed clinical evaluation, ultrasonography including AFI, Doppler and fetal biometry, and non-stress tests (NST).

Results Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups, but hypertensive disorders were significantly higher in the oligohydramnios group (37.3% vs. 9.8%). Non-reactive NST patterns, abnormal fetal heart rate patterns, labour induction (60.8% vs. 17.6%), and caesarean section rates (58.8% vs. 17.6%) were more frequent among cases. Neonates in the oligohydramnios group had lower mean birth weight (2670 g vs. 2850 g) and higher NICU admissions (43.1% vs. 13.7%)

Conclusions Oligohydramnios in late pregnancy may indicate placental pathology and is linked to increased maternal and perinatal complications, requiring careful evaluation, close fetal surveillance, and individualized multidisciplinary management rather than purely conservative care