I'm 32.5 weeks pregnant. dr today says my amniotic fluid is borderline low so i need to hydrate more. what problems can low amniotic fluid levels cause?

The most common: problem that can result from low amniotic fluid is early onset of labor. Strictly speaking, this is labor that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy. In addition to drinking plenty of fluids, your doctor may recommend weekly check ups and repeat estimates of amniotic fluid levels. Early labor isn't inevitable and fluid estimates aren't always reliable. Most likely you will carry to term. Dr. Anne

Oligohydramnios: 1st half of pregnancy- cause birth defects, miscarriage or still birth 2 nd half of pregnancy - intrauterine growth retardation, cord compression, meconium stained fluid and may need C section The amniotic fluid is essential for development of muscles, limbs, lungs and digestive system. Give plenty of room for the limbs tome in utero.

Low amniotic fluid: Low amniotic fluid is associated with several fetal abnormalities both in production and re-circulation. Yes, I said recirculation, as the fluid is swallowed by the fetus and expressed. Your MD is trying to determine if the problem is on the production or re-circulation end by having you increase your fluid intake.