Amniotic fluid index (AFI) is a quantitative estimate of amniotic fluid and an indicator of fetal well-being. It is a separate measurement from the biophysical profile. AFI is the score (expressed in cm) given to the amount of amniotic fluid seen on ultrasonography of a pregnant uterus.
What is normal AFI?
A normal amniotic fluid index is 5 cm to 25 cm using the standard assessment method. Less than 5 cm is considered oligohydramnios, and greater than 25 cm is considered polyhydramnios.
What is a good AFI level?
A normal AFI is 5 to 25 cm. An AFI below 5 cm means low amniotic fluid.
What is the cause of AFI?
Birth defects – Problems with the development of the kidneys or urinary tract which could cause little urine production, leading to low levels of amniotic fluid. Placental problems – If the placenta is not providing enough blood and nutrients to the baby, then the baby may stop recycling fluid.
How is AFI calculated?
To calculate the amniotic fluid index (AFI), the anteroposterior diameters of the largest empty fluid pocket (no umbilical cord or fetal parts) in each quadrant are added together. The AFI is normally 7 to 25 cm. In addition, each individual pocket of fluid should be 2 to 8 cm.
What is normal AFI at 34weeks?
The AFI values differed throughout the gestation and there was a gradual decline in the values as pregnancy advanced. The 5th, 50th, and 95th percentiles ranged from 11.7, 14.6, and 17.3, respectively, at 34 weeks to 8.7, 10.8, and 13.7, respectively, at 40 weeks.
What happens if AFI is high?
Women with polyhydramnios may experience premature contractions, longer labor, difficulties breathing, and other problems during delivery. The condition can also cause complications for the fetus, including anatomical problems, malposition, and, in severe cases, death. Treatment aims to remove excess amniotic fluid.
Is normal delivery possible with AFI 7?
“ There is no specific AFI level for a normal delivery. “ “Usually amniotic fluid index ranges between 5 to 25 cm.” “A lower AFI level does not necessarily indicate the need for a cesarean as long as your baby is growing well.
What is the normal AFI at 30 weeks?
From a median of 10.3 cm (range, 8.7-13.7, 5th-95th percentile) at 15 weeks’ gestation, the amniotic fluid index rose progressively to a maximum median of 14.0 cm (range, 4.0-18.6) at 30 weeks. The index then gradually declined to a median of 9.1 cm (range, 4.8-14.2) by 40 weeks’ gestation.
How much amniotic fluid leak is normal?
Fluid levels throughout your pregnancy could be around: 60 milliliters (mL) at 12 weeks gestation. 175 mL at 16 weeks gestation. 400 to 1,200 mL between 34 and 38 weeks gestation.
What is the normal AFI at 28 weeks?
A normal AFI was considered to be a value between the 5th and 95th percentiles for gestational age. The 5th and 95th percentile values for our total study group from 28 to 42 weeks gestation were 88 and 169 mm, respectively.
How do you measure AFI in twins?
Measurement of an AFI in a singleton gestation involves dividing the uterus into four quadrants using vertical and horizontal lines through the umbilicus. The deepest cord- free pocket of fluid is measured in each quadrant. These quadrants are summed up to provide the AFI.
What foods increase amniotic fluid?
What can you do to improve Amniotic Fluid level? Research tells us that excellent maternal hydration, can improve fluid volumes – minimum 3 L water intake. Plus foods/fluids with water – Watermelon, Cucumber, Lauki, (Squash/Gourd family of veggies), Buttermilk, lemon/lime water with pink salt to improve electrolytes.
What are the signs and symptoms of amniotic fluid embolism?
Signs and symptoms might include:
- Sudden shortness of breath.
- Excess fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema)
- Sudden low blood pressure.
- Sudden failure of the heart to effectively pump blood (cardiovascular collapse)
- Life-threatening problems with blood clotting (disseminated intravascular coagulopathy)
Can stress cause low amniotic fluid?
If the mother is stressed over a longer period of time during pregnancy, the concentration of stress hormones in amniotic fluid rises, as proven by an interdisciplinary team of researchers from the University of Zurich.