Low amniotic fluid during pregnancy must be taken seriously as it may be a sign of an underlying health condition or cause pregnancy complications.

Before talking about the main causes of low amniotic fluid, let us know first what amniotic fluid is.

We will also talk about low amniotic fluid diagnosis, its symptoms, the treatment, and how to prevent it. 

What is amniotic fluid?

The amniotic fluid is a clear fluid that surrounds the baby in the uterus during pregnancy.

It is considered the support system of the baby's life that protects the baby from injuries and umbilical cord compressions.

Amniotic fluid also helps the baby to grow and move in the uterus and to develop the respiratory and digestive systems. 

It is produced after about 12 days post-conception.

At first, it is made up of water provided by the mother, then the baby's urine becomes the primary substance!.

As strange as it sounds, it is an important part of your baby's breathing, swallowing, and development. 

If the fluid measurement is too high, it is called polyhydramnios.

While, if it is too low it is called oligohydramnios, and this is particularly the condition that we will focus on in this article. 

Main causes of low amniotic fluid

Low amniotic fluid during pregnancy which also means “oligohydramnios” occurs when the amniotic fluid is lower than expected for your baby's gestational age. 

The most common possible causes of low amniotic fluid are:

Congenital abnormalities

The congenital abnormalities may affect the baby's kidney or urinary tract.

Leading to a lesser amount of urine and so the amount of amniotic fluid will decrease.

Certain health conditions 

There are certain health conditions related to the mother like diabetes, hypertension, and also obesity.

You should take your medications and prenatal vitamins regularly to improve your health. 

Placental abruption

The placenta peeling away from the wall of the uterus before the baby's birth. 

Passing the due date

Passing the due date by two weeks or more ( the mother reaches 42 weeks gestation).

This condition may lead to serious complications as the amniotic fluid can decrease. 

Dehydration or hypoxia

These conditions may also be among the causes of low amniotic fluid. 

Certain medications

Using some medications such as ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors may also lead to low amniotic fluid. 

After you have known the most common causes of low amniotic fluid.

Now how do you know if you are pregnant with low amniotic fluid?

Diagnosis of low amniotic fluid 

Low amniotic fluid affects about 4% of pregnant women.

It is most common in the third trimester of pregnancy. 

The doctor measures the amount of amniotic fluid in your uterus by the ultrasound.

If the amniotic fluid amount is less than the recommended amount for the gestational age of the fetus, you may have oligohydramnios. 

Two ways to measure the amniotic fluid:

1- Amniotic fluid index (AFI)

2- Maximum vertical pocket (MVP)

Signs and symptoms of low amniotic fluid 

If you have low amniotic fluid during pregnancy, you may feel:

leaking fluids from your vagina without stopping. 

Small measurements of your uterus. 

The movement of your baby decreases and you may not feel it as usual. 

The amniotic fluid index of 5 cm or less. 

When you feel these signs, you must visit your doctor immediately for examination to know the possible causes of low amniotic fluid. 

Possible complications of low amniotic fluid

Having too little amniotic fluid may lead to serious complications, especially in the first and second trimesters during pregnancy. 

The most common complications in the first two trimesters are:

Birth defects.

Deformities in the fetus may be caused by being compressed in the uterus. 

Stillbirth. 

Miscarriage. 

Infections, especially if your water has broken early. 

Complications if your amniotic fluid decreases in the third trimester are:

Growth limitations to your baby. 

Umbilical cord compression.

Problems with breathing and development of the lungs. 

Increased risk of a cesarean section.

Increased risk of an early delivery. 

Treatment options for low amniotic fluid

Treatment of low amniotic fluid will depend on the causes of low amniotic fluid.

In many cases, when the pregnant woman is close to her due date, the doctor delivers the baby. 

In earlier stages of pregnancy, this condition can be monitored. 

Your healthcare provider may recommend drinking more fluids, especially if you have dehydration. 

In many cases, it may be necessary to be admitted to the hospital to receive fluids through an IV infusion “amnioinfusion”.

This may increase the amniotic fluid in your uterus. 

How can low amniotic fluid be prevented?

In reality, there isn't anything you can do to prevent oligohydramnios from happening.

But knowing the causes of low amniotic fluid is your best choice for prevention. 

Attend all your prenatal check-ups and be honest with your doctor about your symptoms and medical history to know if you are at risk of low amniotic fluid. 

Some consider that drinking lots of water may help to increase the amount of amniotic fluid. 

Your healthcare provider may recommend less physical activity and more rest. 

When to see your doctor?

When pregnant, you should always be in contact with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your baby. 

You should talk to your doctor immediately when you experience any of the following:

leaking large amounts of amniotic fluid from your vagina. 

Vaginal bleeding. 

Your baby's movement decreases and you can't feel it as usual. 

Uterine contractions. 

Cramps and pelvic pain. 

Your doctor will give you the appropriate diagnosis and possible causes of low amniotic fluid. 

Summary

Being pregnant, you will be in a state of worry all the time about your fetus's health.

But taking care of your health through regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, getting rest, and taking your medication and prenatal vitamins regularly will bring you to a safe birth. 

Don't forget to talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your fetus's health or if you feel any unusual symptoms.

As it may be a sign of an underlying health condition or pregnancy complications. 

To read more about pregnancy:

How to Lose Weight After Pregnancy | Causes and Treatments

Oral Health During Pregnancy | 7 Problems | 11 Tips To Avoid

They are suitable for people who don't have to do surgery.

But in serious cases, you should consult a specialist. 

Before talking about natural remedies for varicocele, you need to know more about varicocele in men.

What is it?, its causes, symptoms, the treatment, when natural remedies for varicocele can be helpful, and when you should consult your doctor.

What is varicocele?

Varicocele is a common problem that happens to 10-15% of adult men.

It may be symptomless and just can be treated by natural remedies for varicocele.

But in some cases, they may notice symptoms that bother them and will need professional help. 

The male reproductive system consists of pennis and testicles.

The testicles are presented in a sac called the scrotum. 

The veins in the scrotum sometimes become enlarged and swollen and in this case known as varicocele.

This condition is similar to varicose veins (the veins of the legs become swollen and twisted).

What are the causes of varicocele?

The normal veins have only one-way valves so that the blood can move back to the heart. 

In the case of varicocele, the veins in the scrotum lose their normal and correct function.

And the blood doesn't return to the heart, so this blood is collected in the blood vessels of the scrotum causing them to become enlarged and swollen. 

This may happen due to age, damage, or any other medical condition.

What are the symptoms of varicocele?

Most men have no symptoms of varicocele and only discover it during checking on their infertility after one year of trying to have a child.

In many cases, it doesn't affect their lives and only natural remedies for varicocele can make them feel better and more comfortable.

Some severe cases may have symptoms and should visit the physician for a check-up. 

Most symptoms that can be noticed:

1. Swelling in the veins in the scrotum.

2. Itching, discomfort, and pain due to the swelling in the scrotum area, which may get worse when standing or sitting for a long time.

3. Feeling a small mass or lump above the testicles. 

4. Infertility, varicocele is the cause of about 40% of infertility in men.

Treatment of varicocele

Treatment of varicocele depends on its severity.

In severe cases, varicocele affects fertility and causes severe pain.

So, a healthcare provider consultation may be required and the patient may need a varicocelectomy (a surgical procedure in which affected veins of the scrotum are cut and sealed off the ends).

For low-grade varicocele, you may not need treatment if varicocele doesn't bother you or doesn't cause pain.

A healthcare provider may recommend natural remedies for varicocele for low-grade cases. 

Natural remedies for varicocele

1. Ice packs/cold compresses

You can use ice packs or cold compresses twice a day to relieve pain, itching, and swelling in the scrotum region, especially after a tiring exercise. 

Be careful with applying ice packs, you must wrap it in a piece of cloth. 

2. Do exercises regularly

Exercise is one of the effective natural remedies for varicocele that can help you get rid of its symptoms and feel much better. 

Exercise improves blood flow and circulation like jogging, regular walks, and swimming.

It will be beneficial in this condition since varicocele is related to blood circulation. 

3. Wear a jockstrap

A jockstrap is a type of underwear that provides support to the scrotum while performing activities, playing, or doing exercises. 

It protects the testicles and minimizes the pressure on them.

It can help you, especially if your job requires you to stand for long periods. 

4. Avoid tight underwear

Tight underwear may worsen the problem of varicocele as it increases the pressure on the scrotum and testicles and increases the swelling and itching. 

5. Add fiber-rich diet

Increasing fiber-rich food in your diet is considered an easy option from natural remedies for varicocele.

Fiber improves bowel movement and this is necessary to prevent constipation.

As extra straining when passing stool will increase the pressure of the scrotum veins and increase the inflammation. 

You can find fibers in fruits, leafy vegetables, and whole grains. 

6. Keep away from junk food

Junk food worsens your digestion and causes constipation which increases the pressure on the scrotum veins and worsens varicocele. 

7. Increase your antioxidant intake

Antioxidant-rich diet is important to your overall health and in turn, helps you recover from varicocele. 

Vitamin c, melatonin, and other bioactive compounds have been used to reduce damage to testicular function and help you to get rid of varicocele. 

8. Get rest

Getting some rest when you feel tired and getting enough sleep will help you recover faster.

Avoid intensive activities like bicycling and weight lifting as they will increase the pressure on the veins of the scrotum and worsen the problem. 

Laying flat on your back reduces the pressure on the veins and decreases the swelling and pain. 

9. Kegel exercises

Kegel exercises are easy-to-do exercises involving the pelvic floor muscles.

If you practice these exercises regularly, it will strengthen your muscles and increase the blood flow in the scrotum area. 

Keep doing it several times to see potential benefits. 

These are all possible natural remedies for varicocele that can help you, follow them to see a satisfactory result. 

When to consult a healthcare provider?

You should visit your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms whether mild or severe:

1. Pain, itching, and discomfort in the scrotum area. 

2. Enlarged veins on the scrotum. 

3. Difficulty to have a biological child. 

Depending on the severity of the symptoms and the grade of varicocele you have.

The doctor will recommend the proper treatment for you.

Whether medicines, varicocele surgery, or just a change in your routine by some beneficial natural remedies for varicocele. 

Summary

Varicocele is a common disease in men,  the veins in the scrotal area are twisted and enlarged. 

As we stated above varicocele is not of big concern, even if you have mild or severe symptoms.

You can get rid of it natural remedies for varicocele.

Dont forget to consult your doctor who will recommend the appropriate treatment for your case.

It is the best choice for healthy hair that helps you restore damaged hair.

With its creamy formulas featuring argan oil and other beneficial ingredients. 

Having strong and healthy-looking hair is the ultimate confidence goal for most of us.

In this article, we will focus on talking about the Moroccanoil hair mask and how it can overcome most hair problems that we will mention later. 

We will also look at its benefits to all hair types, its different types, its ingredients, and how to use it. 

Before talking about the Moroccanoil hair mask, let's get to know more about the Moroccanoil brand. 

Moroccanoil company 

Moroccanoil is a cosmetics company headquartered in New York city.

This company was founded in 2008, Moroccanoil specializes in hair care products that contain argan oil as a main component.  

The company produces a wide variety of hair care products that solve a wide variety of hair problems.

And we will talk about the Moroccanoil hair mask as one of its products specifically. 

Moroccanoil hair mask benefits

It is important for everyone, especially women, to see how their hair looks and how healthy, and shiny it is.

Moroccanoil hair mask will provide all the hair care you need:

1. Offers a unique approach to hair care and hair styling for all hair types. 

2. It is a nourishing hair mask that makes your hair shiny and more healthy. 

3. It treats weakened and damaged hair and strengthens hair that has been damaged by heat or chemicals. 

4. It is a protein-enriched mask that improves hair texture and manageability. 

5. It hydrates and moisturizes the hair depending on its nourishing components. 

Moroccanoil hair mask ingredients 

Argan oil

It is a main ingredient that plays an important role in increasing hair elasticity, nourishment, and shine.

It is manufactured by a cold press process with vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants. 

Acetamide mea

It is a water-soluble surfactant that has conditioning properties having the role of improving the texture of hair. 

Caryocar Brasiliense fruit oil

It is from the Brazilian pequi fruit and is loaded with essential fatty acids and vitamins. 

Glycerin

It provides a moisturizing effect on hair as a natural humectant. 

linseed extract

It is a source of alpha-linolenic acid (an essential fatty acid that helps improve hair health).

Shea butter

It is a strong moisturizer that treats the dryness of the hair, it also has antioxidant properties.  

Types of Moroccanoil hair mask 

There are five types of Moroccanoil hair masks depending on what type of treatment and care you need from the mask.

You will choose the appropriate type to use. 

1. Moroccanoil intense hydrating hair mask

It is a deep-conditioning creamy formula and a quick, reviving ten-minute hair mask.

It is suitable for medium to thick hair suffering from dryness. 

It hydrates the hair, improves its texture, and gives moisture to the hair.

As it contains argan oil and other nourishing components. 

2. Moroccanoil restorative hair mask

This Moroccanoil hair mask is an intense treatment for weakened and damaged hair caused by heat and other chemicals.

It rebuilds hair strength from the inside out and improves hair texture at the same time. 

It contains protein-enriched ingredients in addition to argan oil and shea butter that fortify hair and repair it in a short time.

You can follow its use with your favorite Moroccanoil conditioner to enhance the repairing effect. 

3. Moroccanoil weightless hair mask

This Moroccanoil hair mask is best suited for fine and dry hair.

This mask provides hydration to the hair without weighing it down.

It also improves hair texture, elasticity, and manageability. 

4. Moroccanoil high shine gloss-color depositing mask

This mask combines deep conditioning treatment with a professional gloss surface.

This type of mask adds a temporary color that deposits on the outermost layer of the hair.

The color will fade out gradually with regular washing. 

You should apply the mask on dry hair and leave it for 15 minutes before rinse if you want an intense color effect. 

5. Moroccanoil smoothing mask

This type of Moroccanoil hair mask gives the hair long-lasting conditioning.

It contains a high concentration of argan oil, argan butter, and coconut-derived fatty acids.

For deep hydration and nourishment to obtain soft and smooth hair. 

How to use Moroccanoil hair mask?

After shampooing, apply a sufficient amount to towel-dried hair then comb to ensure the good distribution of the formula.

Leave it for five to seven minutes and then you can rinse it thoroughly.

No heat is required, you can use it once or twice a week in your usual shower routine. 

A little tip:

For a better result, you can add a few drops of the Moroccanoil treatment and mix it with the Moroccanoil hair mask for deeper conditioning and hydration. 

To get your luxurious hair look, you must get rid of all hair problems that face you and give your hair sufficient care.

And now, let's look at the common hair problems that may face most people. 

The most common hair problems

Slow hair growth

When it comes to hair growth,  hormonal imbalance and genetics could play a main role.

It also may be affected by age, stress, or any other factors.

The normal hair growth rate is about 0.5 inches per month or about 6 inches per year. 

Dry hair

Dry hair is a popular problem that is mostly caused by overheating styling, excessive washing, and harsh chemical treatments. 

Frizziness

Frizziness is a common hair problem caused mostly by lack of moisture, humidity, and lack of hair care.

It leads to a rough and irregular texture. 

Breakage and split ends

This problem is commonly caused by a lack of moisture, bad nutrition with vitamin deficiency, and overuse of heat-styling tools. 

Colour damaged hair

This problem mainly occurs when the hair is subjected to harsh chemicals present in hair dyes.

This leads to loss of hair shine, dryness, and weakness of the hair. 

Heat damaged hair

It is mainly caused by the overusing of heat styling tools.

Without the application of a heat protectant or using cheap materials and low-quality tools.

The hair will be dull, brittle, and dry, these are all the most common hair problems that people may face. 

Summary 

Finally, having a healthy and luxurious hair look reflects our overall health and makes us feel our best and more self-confident.

However, hair care and treatment are also delicate and it can be challenging to fix our hair.

The Moroccanoil hair mask will ease this challenging process, don't miss it!