There Are at Least 7 Functions of Amniotic Fluid For The Fetus

Amniotic fluid is that the fluid that surrounds the baby within the womb throughout pregnancy. Some of the functions of amniotic fluid are to protect the fetus from injury, infection, as well as provide space for the fetus to grow and develop properly. Amniotic fluid begins to be produced after the amniotic sac is formed, which is about 12 days after fertilization. Amniotic fluid consists primarily of maternal body fluids. Then at about 20 weeks of gestation, amniotic fluid is dominated by urine released by the fetus.


Amniotic fluid is clear yellowish and odorless. Its composition consists of hormones, nutrients, immune system supporting cells, and fetal urine. It is with amniotic fluid that the fetus learns to breathe, swallow, and move.


There Are at Least 7 Functions of Amniotic Fluid For The Fetus - ALICE CLINIC

 

The function of amniotic fluid for the fetus

Here square measure a number of the functions of amniotic fluid for babies within the womb:

1. Protects the fetus from impact

The first function of amniotic fluid is to protect the fetus against impacts and external pressures, for example when a pregnant woman falls or hits her stomach.


2. Give room for movement

The amniotic fluid also provides space for the fetus to move, and keeps the umbilical cord from being pinched between the fetus and the uterine wall.


3. Prevent infection

Amniotic fluid serves to prevent infection in the fetus. The content of immune-forming cells in the amniotic fluid is in charge of fighting incoming infections.


4. Make the fetus comfortable

The amniotic fluid ensures that the uterus remains warm and comfortable for the fetus. The temperature of the amniotic fluid is usually slightly warmer than the mother's body, which is around 37.5 degrees Celsius.


5. Supports lung development

The fetus does not breathe by inhaling, but swallowing the amniotic fluid. This activity begins when the womb is 10-11 weeks old. At 32 weeks of gestation, the fetus begins to practice breathing by inflating the lungs. The baby's lungs are considered mature at 36 weeks of gestation.


6. Supports the development of the digestive system

The fetus learns to swallow by drinking amniotic fluid. The water is then excreted as fetal urine to maintain a stable amount of amniotic fluid. A fetus that has difficulty swallowing amniotic fluid will result in too much amniotic fluid volume (polyhydramnios). This can indicate a digestive disorder in the fetus.


7. Supports muscle and bone development

The amniotic sac provides space for the fetus to move. This activity supports the development of foetal muscles and bones.


Abnormalities in the amount of amniotic fluid

The amount of amniotic fluid tends to increase with increasing gestational age, and reaches its highest point around 36 weeks of gestation. After that, the volume of amniotic fluid will decrease as labor approaches. The normal volume of amniotic fluid is as follows:

  • 60 milliliters (ml) at 12 weeks pregnant.
  • 175 ml at 16 weeks gestation.
  • 400-1200 ml at 34-38 weeks.
  • 600 ml at gestational age

It is necessary to understand whether the number of amniotic fluid is appropriate for the gestational age. Lack or excess of amniotic fluid are equally risky.


Lack of amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios) can be caused by congenital abnormalities in the fetus, placental abnormalities, premature rupture of membranes, and pregnancy exceeding the estimated day of birth. In addition, physiological state complications, like dehydration, high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and diabetes, may also cause oligohydramnios.


Meanwhile, excess amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios) can be caused by genetic abnormalities in the fetus, gestational diabetes, twin to twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), rhesus incompatibility between maternal and fetal blood, and fetal heart defects.

Read Too : Symptoms and Treatment of Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome


Given the importance of the function of amniotic fluid for the fetus, make sure the amount is appropriate for gestational age. Don't forget to consult regularly with your obstetrician so that the pregnancy is healthy until the day of delivery arrives.

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