Amniotic fluid
Amniotic fluid is the liquid that surrounds an unborn child (fetus) in the womb (uterus) throughout pregnancy. The amniotic fluid protects the fetus from temperature extremes and from being bumped or hurt as the mother moves around.
Amniotic fluid allows the fetus to move before birth and is important for lung development. It is produced by the fetus and the placenta and contains cells and other substances that have been shed by the fetus.
Amniocentesis is a test done to collect a sample of amniotic fluid.
| Author | Sandy Jocoy, RN |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Siobhan M. Dolan, MD, MPH - Reproductive Genetics |
| Last Updated | May 14, 2008 |
| Author: | Sandy Jocoy, RN | Last Updated: May 14, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Siobhan M. Dolan, MD, MPH - Reproductive Genetics |
|
© 1995-2009, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.