A–Z Glossary

Amniotic fluid index

The amniotic fluid index estimates fluid volume by adding measurements from the deepest vertical fluid pocket in each of four uterine quadrants.

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Oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios explained

Oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios explained

Why amniotic fluid matters Amniotic fluid is not simply “water around the baby.” In early pregnancy, it is largely derived from maternal plasma and fluid movement across fetal membranes. Later, fetal urine becomes a major contributor, while fetal swallowing, lung fluid movement, membrane exchange, and placental dynamics help regulate the total volume. Because production and […]