Amniotic fluid plays an important role in supporting the fetus during pregnancy. The mother's body produces amniotic fluid as soon as 2 weeks after conception. As the pregnancy continues, the amniotic fluid helps the baby move around inside the womb, and supports the development of the baby.
Time Frame
In the first few weeks of pregnancy, water makes up most of the amniotic fluid. At the beginning of the second trimester, the components of the amniotic fluid include electrolytes, proteins, fats and carbohydrates. A baby drinks amniotic fluid around 12 weeks after conception. By 20 weeks, fetal urine is the primary substance of amniotic fluid.
Labor often starts with the rupture of the mother's amniotic sac. However, if amniotic sac rupture occurs before week 38 of pregnancy, it is a complication, often referred to as premature rupture of membranes.
Size
As the pregnancy continues, the level of amniotic fluid increases to peak 800 to 1000 millileters at the end of the third trimester. After the baby reaches full term (weeks 37 to 40), the level of amniotic fluid starts to decline slightly.
Function
The most important role of the amniotic fluid is to protect the baby against physical shocks from outside. It also helps the baby to move around in the womb, consequently, allowing the baby to develop her muscles. The amniotic fluid is typically 1 degree Celsius higher than the mother's body temperature. This helps the baby to maintain her body temperature.
Effects
Unusually high or low levels of amniotic fluid increase the risk of pregnancy complications. A mother is diagnosed with oligohydramnios if she has too little amniotic fluid.The probability of being diagnosed with oligohydramnios is about 4 percent . The pregnancy complications associated with oligohydramnios include birth defects, increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth, preterm delivery, increased risk of cord compression and c-section delivery during labor.
A mother is diagnosed with polyhydramnios if she has too much amniotic fluid. The probability of being diagnosed with polyhydramnios during pregnancy is about 2 percent . The potential pregnancy complications associated with polyhydramnios are preterm delivery, stillbirth, poor development of the baby, and several delivery complications including placental abruption, C-section delivery and severe bleeding.
Expert Insight
The treatment options for oligohydramnios depend on the stage of pregnancy. If the mother is already full term or close to full term, it is recommended that the mother delivers the baby. If the mother is not full term, re-hydration by oral fluids and IV fluids can help to raise the level of .
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