Low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) is a condition in which the amniotic fluid measures lower than expected for a baby's gestational age. Short-term improvement of amniotic fluid is possible and might be done in certain circumstances. But in long term, there is no proven treatment.

Various factors that can contribute to low amniotic fluid:

1. Water breaking
2. The placenta peeling away from the inner wall of the uterus - either partially or completely — before delivery (placental abruption)
3. Certain health conditions in the mother, such as chronic high blood pressure
4. Use of certain medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
5. Certain health conditions in the baby, such as restricted growth or a genetic disorder

If it is less than 36 weeks of pregnancy, the doctor will review the baby's health, discuss and recommend monitoring pregnancy with fetal ultrasounds. He or she also might recommend drinking more fluids — especially if the mother is dehydrated.

If there is low amniotic fluid and the mother is 36 to 37 weeks pregnant, the safest treatment might be delivery.

Low amniotic fluid during pregnancy is a serious condition. If there are any concerns about the amount of fluid around the baby, contact the doctor and follow the advice sincerely. It is a problem that requires serious attention and doubts can't be ignored.