How does amniotic fluid come from during pregnancy?

Amniotic fluid is an important guarantee for the healthy development of the fetus. During pregnancy, the liquid in the amniotic cavity of the uterus is amniotic fluid, which is an indispensable component for maintaining fetal life. The source of amniotic fluid varies at different stages of the fetus. For example, in the early stages of pregnancy, it mainly comes from the plasma components of the embryo. As the fetus gradually grows and develops, the fetal urine, respiratory system and other organs and tissues become the main sources of amniotic fluid.

How does amniotic fluid come from during pregnancy?

Amniotic fluid refers to the fluid in the amniotic cavity of the uterus during pregnancy. Throughout the pregnancy process, it is an important component that is indispensable for maintaining fetal life. The source of amniotic fluid varies at different stages of fetal development. During the first trimester of pregnancy, amniotic fluid mainly comes from the plasma components of the embryo; afterwards, as the embryo's organs begin to mature and develop, other sources of amniotic fluid, such as the fetal urine, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, umbilical cord, placental surface, etc., also become sources of amniotic fluid.

98% of amniotic fluid is water, with small amounts of inorganic salts, organic hormones and shed fetal cells. The weight of amniotic fluid generally increases with the number of weeks of pregnancy. At 20 weeks, the average is 500 ml; at around 28 weeks, it increases to 700 ml; it is the highest at 32 to 36 weeks, about 1,000 to 1,500 ml; and then gradually decreases. Therefore, the clinical normal range is 300 to 2,000 ml. Exceeding this range is called "polyhydramnios", and failing to meet this standard is called "oligohydramnios". Both conditions require special attention.

2. The role of amniotic fluid

1. During pregnancy, amniotic fluid can alleviate external pressure or impact on the abdomen, preventing the fetus from direct damage.

2. Amniotic fluid can stabilize the temperature in the uterus and prevent it from changing drastically. During the growth and development of the fetus, the fetus can have a space to move around, so the fetus's limb development will not become abnormal or deformed.

3. Amniotic fluid can reduce the mother's feelings or discomfort caused by the fetus's movements in the uterus.

4. There are also some antibacterial substances in amniotic fluid, which play a certain role in reducing infection.

5. During delivery, the amniotic fluid forms a water bag, which can ease the expansion of the cervix.

6. Umbilical cord prolapse can be avoided in breech and foot positions.

7. When the uterus contracts, the amniotic fluid can buffer the pressure of the uterus on the fetus, especially the pressure on the fetal head.

8. After the water breaks, the amniotic fluid has a certain lubricating effect on the birth canal, making it easier for the fetus to be delivered.

This article introduces in detail how amniotic fluid is formed and what the function of amniotic fluid is. If you are a pregnant woman, then you'd better read the contents of this article carefully so that you can know what the amniotic fluid in your body is and what its function is. It will be of great help to women's normal pregnancy.