P01: Fetus and newborn affected by maternal complications of pregnancy

P01.2: Fetus and newborn affected by oligohydramnios

When the pregnancy begins, the amniotic sac containing the amniotic fluid develops in the womb. The amniotic sac surrounds the child. The amniotic fluid keeps the amniotic sac stretched so that the child can move about.

There are different reasons for there being too little amniotic fluid. Possible causes are, for example, deformities in the child or an insufficient supply of nutrients to the child via the umbilical cord. There can also be too little amniotic fluid when more than one child is developing in the womb.

If there is too little amniotic fluid, the child's health can be harmed. The child may no longer be able to move so freely in the amniotic sac. The child may then lie in an unusual position. The feet, for example, may take up an unusual position. The face and head may also develop differently. There can also be problems with the umbilical cord or the placenta if there is not enough amniotic fluid. The child may then not develop normally in the womb. After the birth there may be problems with breathing if the lungs have not developed properly in the womb.