The amniotic fluid is that fluid surrounding the developing fetus that is found within the amniotic sac contained in the mother's womb.
Physical characteristics ;
pH of is around 7.2.Specific gravity of 1.0069 – 1.008.
Volume depends on gestation , 400ml at mid pregnancy and reaches about 1000ml at 36-38 weeks .
High volume of amniotic fluid i.e. more than 2000 ml is called
Low volume of amniotic fluid i.e. less than 400 ml is called
Polyhydramnios. It results when the fetus does not swallow the usual amount of amniotic fluid e.g. in esophageal atresiaOligohydramnios. Renal agenesis (failure of kidney formation) is the main cause of oligohydramnios Oligohydramnios.; It can develop at any stage in pregnancy , although it is more common in the last trimester especially in those women whose pregnancy extends beyond the 40 weeks since the amniotic fluid tends to decrease at that time. Causes:
- it can also be caused by certain maternal conditions such as DM , high blood pressure.
Renal agenesis (failure of fetal kidney formation) is the main cause of oligohydramnios , Oligohydramnios.
The problems associated with oligohydramnios differ depending on the stage of the pregnancy. Oligohydramnios is more likely to have serious consequences if it occurs in the first half of pregnancy than if it occurs in the last trimester. These consequences include :
Birth defects(too little amniotic fluid early in pregnancy can lead to compression of fetal organs, resulting in lung and limb defects)
Miscarriage
Premature birth
Still birth (due to compression of the umbilical cord).
