Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) - Gynecology

What is Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI)?

The Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) is a quantitative measure of the amount of amniotic fluid present in a pregnant woman's uterus. It is commonly used during the third trimester to assess fetal well-being.

How is AFI Measured?

AFI is measured using ultrasound. The uterus is divided into four quadrants, and the deepest, unobstructed, vertical pocket of fluid in each quadrant is measured in centimeters. These measurements are then summed to calculate the AFI.

What are the Normal AFI Values?

A normal AFI ranges from 8 to 24 cm. Values less than 5 cm are considered indicative of oligohydramnios, whereas values greater than 24 cm indicate polyhydramnios.

Why is AFI Important?

Monitoring AFI helps in assessing the health of the fetus. Abnormal levels can indicate various complications, such as fetal distress, placental insufficiency, and certain congenital anomalies.

What Causes Abnormal AFI Levels?

Several factors can contribute to abnormal AFI levels. Oligohydramnios can be caused by rupture of membranes, placental problems, or maternal conditions such as preeclampsia. Polyhydramnios can result from maternal diabetes, fetal congenital anomalies, or multiple pregnancies.

What are the Risks of Abnormal AFI?

Oligohydramnios can increase the risk of complications like preterm birth, labor complications, and fetal development issues. Polyhydramnios can lead to preterm labor, maternal discomfort, and increased risk of cesarean delivery.

How is Abnormal AFI Managed?

Management strategies depend on the underlying cause and severity. Oligohydramnios may require maternal hydration, monitoring, and sometimes early delivery. Polyhydramnios might involve amnioreduction, medication, and close monitoring of both mother and fetus.

When Should AFI Be Monitored?

AFI is typically monitored during routine prenatal visits in the third trimester, especially if there are risk factors or concerns about fetal well-being. It may also be checked more frequently in high-risk pregnancies.

Conclusion

Understanding and monitoring the Amniotic Fluid Index is crucial in ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and the fetus. Regular prenatal care and timely interventions can effectively manage any abnormalities in AFI.

Relevant Publications

Perinatal outcomes of pregnancies with borderline oligohydramnios at term.

Issue Release: 2024

Is Obesity a Risk Factor for Disorders of Amniotic Fluid?

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Implementation of sonopartogram: multicenter feasibility study.

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Comparison of the Effect of Injection Enoxaparin Versus Conventional Treatment on Amniotic Fluid Index in Borderline Oligohydramnios in Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Randomized Control Trial in a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Issue Release: 2023

Title: Is Mild Idiopathic Polyhydramnios Associated with an Increased Risk for an Intrauterine Fetal Demise? A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Issue Release: 2023

A Longitudinal Analytical Study on Umbilical Cord Coiling Index as a Predictor of Pregnancy Outcome.

Issue Release: 2023

Fetal epicardial fat thickness in non-severe idiopathic polyhydramnios: Its impact on fetal cardiac function and perinatal outcomes.

Issue Release: 2023

Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in pregnancy and oligohydramnios: a review.

Issue Release: 2023

Assessment of fetal myocardial performance index in pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection: A prospective cohort study.

Issue Release: 2023

The effect of maternal lower limb compression on amniotic fluid index, uteroplacental perfusion and fetal blood flow in isolated oligohydramnios.

Issue Release: 2023

A Study of the Fluid Intake, Hydration Status, and Health Effects among Pregnant Women in Their Second Trimester in China: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Issue Release: 2023

Small estimated placental volume (EPV) in the setting of decreased fetal movement.

Issue Release: 2023

Prevalence of abnormal umbilical arterial Doppler indices in apparently normal pregnancies in Calabar.

Issue Release: 2023

A Randomized Trial of Inpatient and Home-Based Maternal Oral Hydration Therapy in Isolated Oligohydramnios and Its Effect on Amniotic Fluid Index and Perinatal Outcome.

Issue Release: 2023

Vaginal Drain to Prevent Ascending Infection in Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Novel Method.

Issue Release: 2023

Fasting plasma glucose and fetal ultrasound predict the occurrence of neonatal macrosomia in gestational diabetes mellitus.

Issue Release: 2023

Effect of Amino Acid Infusion on Amniotic Fluid Index in Pregnancies Associated With Oligohydramnios and Fetal Growth Restriction.

Issue Release: 2023

Evaluation of Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnant Women With Low Amniotic Fluid Index.

Issue Release: 2023

Correlation between cerebroplacental doppler ratio and neonatal respiratory disorders: A reference marker of fetal lung maturation.

Issue Release: 2022

Adverse Perinatal Outcomes of True Knot of the Umbilical Cord: A Case Series and Review of Literature.

Issue Release: 2022

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