Several laboratory tests may be performed on the amniotic fluid to help identify various conditions and diseases.Īmniocentesis is the removal of a small amount of fluid (about an ounce) from the sac that surrounds a developing fetus using a needle and syringe. This is why samples of the amniotic fluid can be tested to evaluate fetal health. During this circulation process, cells from various parts of the fetus’s body slough off into the fluid, and chemicals produced by the fetus are present as well. The amount of amniotic fluid increases over time and is constantly being absorbed and renewed. The fetus swallows and inhales amniotic fluid and releases it as urine. The amniotic fluid constantly moves (circulates) as the baby swallows and “inhales” the fluid, and then releases it. Amniotic fluid is absorbed and continually renewed. Amniotic fluid is contained within the amniotic sac and is normally a clear to pale yellow liquid that contains proteins, nutrients, hormones, fetal cells, fetal urine and antibodies.Īmniotic fluid begins forming one to two weeks after conception and increases in volume until there is about a quart (800 mL) at 36 weeks of pregnancy. Amniotic fluid allows a fetus to move relatively freely within the uterus, keeps the umbilical cord from being compressed, and helps maintain a stable temperature. Amniotic fluid embolism signs and symptomsĪmniotic fluid is is a clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds, protects and nourishes a growing baby in the uterus during pregnancy.
![symptoms of low amniotic fluid symptoms of low amniotic fluid](https://cdn2.momjunction.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/High-Amniotic-Fluid2-910x1024.jpg)
![symptoms of low amniotic fluid symptoms of low amniotic fluid](http://1q3nfm4evj5z1sgm624e93ka-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Amniotic-Fluid-Leaks-During-Pregnancy.jpg)
How does amniotic fluid keep your baby healthy?.