Amniotic Fluid & Its Role

Amniotic fluid is the protective liquid that surrounds your baby in the amniotic sac. It serves multiple critical functions: cushioning baby from bumps, maintaining consistent temperature, allowing movement for development, and providing nutrients.

The fluid composition changes throughout pregnancy. Early on, it's mostly water from your body. Later, it's primarily fetal urine baby produces and then swallows, creating a continuous cycle. This swallowing helps develop digestive and respiratory systems.

Fluid volume increases until about week 34-36, then may decrease slightly. Too much (polyhydramnios) or too little (oligohydramnios) can indicate problems and requires monitoring.