Hypoglycemia during pregnancy

General characterization of the condition

Gestational hypoglycemia is a pathological state in which the volume of amniotic fluid decreases (oligohydramnios) to a level below the acceptable level (less than 500 ml). According to statistics, this situation occurs in about 4% of cases, but it requires special monitoring, as it may indicate abnormalities in the childbirth process.

Differences between natural conception and IVF protocols in cases of water insufficiency

The causes and clinical characteristics of low birth weight may differ depending on the mode of pregnancy. In natural conception, low birth weight often develops in the context of placental insufficiency, infections, hypertension, toxemia, or chronic diseases in the mother. In general, these conditions are already present before pregnancy and affect its proper course.

In the case of IVF: In Vitro Fertilization, a deficiency in amniotic fluid may be associated with peculiarities of hormonal stimulation, irregularities in the implantation process, and the condition of the placenta. In the protocol with one's own eggs, medication preparation and the frequent cases of multiple births represent an additional burden on the body.

When using donor eggs, older women or those suffering from severe chronic diseases are more often faced with a deficiency in amniotic fluid. The genetic differences between the donor and the mother also have an impact, which can interfere with the adaptation and blood supply of the placenta.

In double donation protocols, where both donor eggs and donor sperm are used, there is a risk of immunological incompatibility, implantation disorders, and severe placental insufficiency. All these factors increase the likelihood of a deficiency in amniotic fluid.

Importance of amniotic fluid

Amniotic fluid performs many vital functions. It provides a safe environment for the fetus, protects it from mechanical influences and infections, participates in metabolism between the mother and the fetus, contributes to the correct position of the baby, and to the opening of the cervix during childbirth.

Causes of amniotic fluid deficiency

The most common causes of decreased amniotic fluid volume are infections, congenital developmental anomalies, hypoxia, and urinary system disorders in the fetus. Hypertension, toxemia, and chronic diseases of the pregnant woman can also be triggering factors.

Possible complications

Oligohydramnios is characterized by insufficient fluid around the baby in the uterus. This can occur due to poor development of the baby. It can prevent the baby from turning into a head-down position for birth or may cause compression of the baby's umbilical cord, reducing the oxygen flow to the fetus and causing hypoxia. There may also be fusion of the walls of the fetal bladder with the body of the fetus, formation of amniotic constrictions, leading to trauma for the fetus. If low amniotic fluid content develops late in pregnancy, it can lead to weak labor and complicate natural childbirth.

Diagnosis and timing of delivery

The diagnosis of low birth weight is most often made during the third trimester, especially between the 38th and 39th weeks. It is detected during routine ultrasound and Doppler imaging, as well as based on the general condition of the woman and the results of laboratory tests.

Signs of low birth weight

Symptoms may include discomfort during fetal movements, lower abdominal pain, nausea, dry mouth, fatigue, apathy, decreased appetite, and insufficient sleep.

Treatment and management tactics for pregnancy

The expectant mother should avoid stress, overload, and negative factors. In the case of a mild form of hypersecretion detected during the second trimester, treatment is done on an outpatient basis and includes medications aimed at improving uteroplacental blood flow, normalizing placental function, and vitamin therapy. At a more advanced term (from 34 weeks), inpatient treatment is indicated, including correction of the underlying disease and supportive therapy.

Oligohydramnios requires monitoring and professional medical approach, especially in cases of IVF pregnancies. Timely detection and treatment can minimize risks and preserve the health of the mother and child.