Association of Amniotic Fluid Index with Perinatal Outcome – A  cross-sectional study

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Adequate amniotic fluid volume is essential for fetal well-being and is commonly assessed using the Amniotic Fluid Index. Abnormal AFI levels, including oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios, have been associated with increased perinatal morbidity and mortality. Early identification of these abnormalities may help predict adverse neonatal outcomes and guide timely obstetric management. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between AFI and perinatal outcomes among pregnant women. Methods & Materials: This hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangladesh Medical University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2025 to December 2025. A total of 120 pregnant women in the third trimester were enrolled by purposive sampling. AFI was measured using ultrasonography and categorized into oligohydramnios, borderline, normal and polyhydramnios. Maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 with chi-square testing. Results: Borderline AFI was most common (37, 30.8%), followed by normal (31, 25.8%), oligohydramnios (29, 24.2%) and polyhydramnios (23, 19.2%). Overall, 35 neonates (29.2%) experienced adverse outcomes. NICU admission (22.5%), low birth weight (19.2%) and meconium-stained liquor (17.5%) were the most frequent complications. Adverse outcomes were higher in borderline (11 cases) and oligohydramnios (9 cases) groups. A significant association was found between AFI category and perinatal outcome (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Abnormal AFI is significantly associated with increased perinatal morbidity. Routine AFI assessment may help identify high-risk pregnancies and improve neonatal outcomes through timely intervention.