Role of Ultrasound in Antenatal Detection of Echogenic Amniotic Fluid and Pregnancy Outcome

Abstract

Background: Ultrasound is a valuable tool for evaluating fetal problems throughout pregnancy. Amniotic fluid anomalies have been associated with unfavorable maternal, fetal, and obstetrical outcomes. Objective: To determine the effect of echogenic amniotic fluid during term pregnancy on the presence of meconium stain liquor and pregnancy outcome. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1080 term pregnant women who visited Al-Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital from May 1st, 2021, to May 1st, 2023. Ultrasound was used to analyze echogenic amniotic fluid and turbid liquor. The liquor state was tested either after an artificial membrane rupture in the vaginal delivery trial or during a cesarean section. Results: Echogenic amniotic fluid or turbid liquor was detected in 120 cases, while clear liquor was found in 960. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid was discovered in 39 of the 120 instances with turbid liquor, whereas bloody liquor was found in four. In contrast, clear fluid with vernix caseosa was identified in 55 cases, while just 22 cases had clear liquor. Clear liquor was found in 640 of the 960 cases, vernix caseosa liquor in 200, and meconium-staining liquor in only 120 cases. Conclusions: The presence of echogenic amniotic fluid or turbid liquor increases the chance of meconium-stained liquor, but it could also be caused by vernix caseosa. Other indicators, such as fetal movement and the non-stress test, should be used to determine the manner of delivery.