What condition is characterized by low amniotic fluid due to maternal factors?

Oligohydramnios is characterized by low amniotic fluid volume and can arise from maternal factors. Various issues can lead to this condition, such as dehydration, certain medications, or chronic health conditions that affect blood flow or fluid balance in the body. For instance, maternal dehydration can diminish blood flow to the kidneys, ultimately impacting urine production, which is a significant source of amniotic fluid.

In the context of pregnancy, oligohydramnios can result from complications such as placental insufficiency or rupture of membranes, which can also be related to maternal health. Assessing levels of amniotic fluid is important because it can affect fetal development and outcomes.

Polyhydramnios, conversely, refers to an excess of amniotic fluid and is typically due to fetal factors or conditions such as diabetes. Preeclampsia involves hypertension and may result in fluid accumulation elsewhere in the body rather than low amniotic fluid. Gestational diabetes primarily affects glucose metabolism and is not directly associated with amniotic fluid levels in the same way oligohydramnios is.