<jats:p>Oligohydramnios refers to an amniotic fluid volume that is less than expected for gestational age. Oligohydramnios increases the risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality at all stages of pregnancy. The extent of the risk depends on the underlying cause, severity, and gestational age at diagnosis and delivery. While oligohydramnios is often idiopathic, known causes include preterm premature rupture of membranes, fetal structural abnormalities, placental abruption, fetal chromosomal abnormalities and genetic syndromes, maternal medication use, uteroplacental insufficiency, and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Complications include restricted fetal movements leading to musculoskeletal abnormalities (contractures) and facial deformities (Potter Sequence). In severe cases, oligohydramnios may also result in pulmonary hypoplasia, umbilical cord compression, and fetal/neonatal death. Oligohydramnios is a sonographic diagnosis. Management depends on the underlying cause. Treatment options are limited and depend on the etiology. In select cases (such as twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome or genitourinary outlet obstruction), in utero surgery may be curative. Amnioinfusion can be used in labor to resolve fetal heart rate abnormalities due to umbilical cord compression and decrease the risk of cesarean delivery. This review contains 4 figures, 2 tables, and 63 references. Keywords: Oligohydramnios, fetal lung development, ultrasound, perinatal morbidity, preterm premature rupture of membranes, preterm birth</jats:p>

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.