low fluid

Erica - posted on 04/17/2009

I'm also told that the low fluid happens at the end of your pregnancy as well. I was told to increase my water intake as well. I'm drinking around 2 to 2 1/2 gal. of water a day and they are still telling me the fluid levels are low. I asked if it had anything to do with my GD and they said no. So I'm not sure why. I'm begining to believe that ultrasounds aren't as useful as they say they are. Every time I have an ultra sound my baby has another "problem" they are off the low fluid and now on to the fact they think she has club foot. In my opinion I wouldn't worry too much about it uless your doctor is telling you it's time to worry.

Allison - posted on 04/16/2009

Quoting Felicia:

It is normal for them to check this around the time they do the weight estimate, both done by ultrasound.

Yes, that's true, but the measurements for both are pretty inaccurate. Keep in mind the weight estimate can be off by 20%, which could be a pound or more either way. I know so many women who were told they were going to have a 10lbs baby and ended up with an 8lber. Doing medical interventions because of a suspected "big baby" isn't even recommended by ACOG, and isn't exactly fair - baby's position is much more important than the size of baby.  

Brenda - posted on 04/16/2009

The only time I've ever had my fluid checked has been for a Biophysical Profile, which they only do if there is a problem. I get a modified BPP now because of gestational diabetes, and they've never commented on my fluid level. If you have no problems, you may never have a sonogram to check fluid levels. :)

Felicia - posted on 04/16/2009

It is normal for them to check this around the time they do the weight estimate, both done by ultrasound.

Brittany - posted on 04/16/2009

I had to miss my 37 week appt because of transportation problems, my next appt will be Monday. I haven't had this checked. Is it a normal thing they do? How do they do it?

Allison - posted on 04/16/2009

Quoting Felicia:

No I do not remember the fluid measurement... my memory is kind of shot these days :-)

I hear that! ;-)

If I remember correctly, as long as the ultrasound tech can get a fluid e of 2 (cm? fluid oz? not sure of the unit, but still 2) then it's considered normal. Below 2 might be considered low, but keep in mind that it changes so frequently so that if you increase your water intake you can often correct this.  Weather is also a factor: I live in Phoenix, AZ, so it's common in the summer to have low fluid because it's hard to stay hydrated when it's so hot and dry. 

Felicia - posted on 04/16/2009

Thank you, yes I was told to increase my water intake and to relax more (still working at my stressful job) No I do not remember the fluid measurement... my memory is kind of shot these days :-)

Allison - posted on 04/16/2009

You can increase your fluid levels by drink more water. Remember that the fluid is completely replaced every 3 hours, so it's important to stay hydrated. Do you happen to know the fluid level/measurement?

Brenda - posted on 04/16/2009

I have GD as well, but have not had any trouble with low fluid...  I do get a sono once a week and a weekly NST though, but so far it hasn't shown any problems.  :)  I'm just going to be glad when this kid gets here and is no longer kicking the crud out of my rib cage.....lol

Felicia - posted on 04/16/2009

interesting that you have GD. I was told that all my numbers are borderline so I go weekly for bloodwork and ultrasounds as well. I bet the low fluid and the GD have something to do ith eachother. My primary care physician said"borderline" means I have it, the OB is just being nice. Thanks for the input and good luck to you Erica!

Erica - posted on 04/16/2009

I'm told my fluid is low as well, although the doctor didn't say much else but the fact that it was low. I'm due May 11 and having a natrual birth. He hasn't said anything about taking her early but I do 1 ultrasound a week and 2 nst's (non stress tests) a week as well. Both of those are for my Gestational Diabetes but I'm happy that he's able to monitor whats going on. Almost every kick I feel hurts but I never thought about it dealing with the low fluid.