I don’t know how many mothers have “amniotic fluid problems” when they are pregnant, today we will talk about “the secret of amniotic fluid”.
1.What is amniotic fluid
Amniotic fluid is the fluid in the amniotic cavity of the uterus during pregnancy. In the first trimester, amniotic fluid mainly from the embryo’s blood plasma components; after that, as the embryonic organs begin to mature and develop, other fluids such as fetal urine, respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, umbilical cord, placental surface secretion, etc., have also become the source of amniotic fluid. The composition of amniotic fluid is 98% water, with a small amount of inorganic salts, organic hormones and shed fetal cells.
2.The role of amniotic fluid
①Guarding the safety of the fetus
During pregnancy, amniotic fluid can moderate the external pressure or impact on the abdomen, so that the fetus does not suffer direct damage.
② let the fetus have sufficient space for growth
Amniotic fluid can stabilize the temperature in the uterus so that there are no drastic changes and the fetus can have a space to move around during fetal development, thus, the fetus’ limbs do not form abnormalities or deformities.
③Provide the fetus with sufficient nutrients
the fetus can get nutrients from swallowing and digesting amniotic fluid, in addition to taking in nutrients from the placenta (mother’s body) from the umbilical cord
④Protective effect for the mother
can reduce the mother’s sensation or discomfort caused by the fetus moving around in the womb.
⑤ Lubrication, cushioning and disinfection of the birth canal during labor
During labor, the amniotic fluid cavity is subjected to uterine contractions that generate pressure toward the cervix, helping to open the cervix and create a passage for the delivery of the fetus. The amniotic fluid also has a lubricating effect so that the birth canal is not too dry during labor, allowing for a smooth delivery.
At the same time, there are some anti-bacterial substances in the amniotic fluid, which has a role in reducing infection when the water breaks.
3.What is the problem of too much or too little amniotic fluid
The weight of amniotic fluid will increase with the number of weeks of pregnancy, gradually increasing to the maximum, and then gradually decreasing.
Clinically, the normal range is 300-2000 ml, beyond this range is called “hyperhydramnios”, and below this standard is called “hypohydramnios”.
1) Excessive amniotic fluid
Patients with excessive amniotic fluid often have varying degrees of pressure symptoms.
Causes of excessive amniotic fluid may include
Multiple births, fetal malformations, gastrointestinal obstruction, gestational diabetes, and unknown causes.
The main symptoms of presentation are.
Abdominal distension and indigestion.
Affecting cardiopulmonary function, with shortness of breath, palpitations, rapid pulse and inability to lie down.
Presence of edema and varicose veins in the vulva and lower extremities.
May lead to.
Susceptibility to preterm labor due to high uterine tension.
rapid outflow of large amount of amniotic fluid when the membranes rupture and sudden shrinkage of the uterus, which may easily cause placental abruption
Umbilical cord prolapse due to the possibility of the cord rushing out with the amniotic fluid
Postpartum hemorrhage due to weak contractions.
Summing up.
In order to avoid preterm labor caused by too much amniotic fluid, the obstetrician will release the excess amniotic fluid, i.e. “amniotic fluid drainage”, so that the pregnant woman’s uterus will be less burdened and the risk of preterm labor will be reduced.
②Low amniotic fluid
Low amniotic fluid is also an important sign of fetal anomalies or latent illness in the mother.
Causes of excessive amniotic fluid may include
On the part of the mother: insufficient water intake, hypovolemia, influence of medications, gestational hypertension, etc.
On the fetal side: early gestational water breakage, fetal growth retardation, overmaturity of the fetus, fetal anomalies, placental insufficiency, etc.
The main symptoms of presentation are.
In case of premature water breakage, it must be tested whether the fetus can continue to settle or the infection has become quite serious and must be delivered early.
When fetal abnormalities are detected, it must be determined whether intrauterine treatment or early delivery
May result in.
Tend to cause the uterus to become smaller, which may also lead to fetal hypoplasia and early placental abruption
in severe cases, may affect fetal limb malformations
It may even affect the development of the fetus such as the lungs as well.
To sum up.
Long-term low amniotic fluid can also cause fetal compression, producing facial deformities or incorrect posture of the hands and feet, so if necessary, amniotic fluid infusion should also be given to increase the amount of amniotic fluid
4.How to identify whether the water broke prematurely or urine flow
A specific chemical test paper can be placed in the vagina. If the water has broken prematurely, the orange test paper will turn dark green. (Test strips can be bought at hospitals or pharmacies)
How to prevent premature rupture of amniotic fluid.
Insist on regular prenatal checkups.
refrain from strenuous activities in the middle and late pregnancy and take appropriate walks.
Not to take long walks or run, or to be on the road for a long time bumpy.
Reduce sexual intercourse during pregnancy.
The amount of amniotic fluid in each mother’s womb is different, and its amount can affect the health of the fetus. So the mother in the middle of pregnancy can maintain a happy mood, as well as the safety of protection prepared Oh!