Oligohydramnios. Literature review and case study.

Quantitative evaluation of amniotic fluid volume is now widely used to evaluate fetal status during pregnancy. A finding of decreased fluid volume raises management issues and requires that nurse-midwives arrange collaborative care. This article reviews the literature relevant to amniotic fluid volume and oligohydramnios. The significance to nurse-midwifery is discussed. Conservative management of oligohydramnios is described. A case involving oligohydramnios diagnosed prior to term is presented and discussed.