Hello Roopa, it is reassuring to hear that your Doppler scan was normal. At 28 weeks and 3 days, an Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI) of 20 cm is considered at the high end of the normal range, often referred to as borderline polyhydramnios.
Understanding Your AFI Levels
Amniotic fluid levels are measured to ensure the baby has enough room to grow and that the placenta is functioning well.
Normal Range: Generally, an AFI between 5 cm and 25 cm is considered within the normal range during the third trimester.
Your Level: At 20 cm, while higher than average, it is not typically categorized as "severe" polyhydramnios.
Why the Dietary Advice?
Your doctor's recommendation to avoid sweets and rice is likely a preventive measure. High amniotic fluid can sometimes be linked to high maternal blood
sugar levels (Gestational
Diabetes), even if your tests haven't shown it yet.
Sweets and Rice: These are high-glycemic foods that can spike blood sugar, potentially causing the baby to produce more urine, which increases amniotic fluid.
Management: Reducing these helps stabilize your sugar levels and can help prevent the fluid from increasing further.
Next Steps
Follow the Diet: Stick to the low-sugar, controlled-carbohydrate diet as advised by your doctor.
Glucose Monitoring: Ensure you have completed a GTT (Glucose Tolerance Test) recently to rule out gestational diabetes.
Regular Follow-ups: You will likely need serial scans every 2–4 weeks to monitor the fluid trend and the baby's growth.
Word of Caution: If you notice sudden abdominal tightening, difficulty breathing, or a rapid increase in your belly size, contact your doctor immediately.