The Important Function of Amniotic Fluid for the Fetus

For pregnant mothers, you must be familiar with the term amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is water or fluid contained in the uterus and baby during the womb. The main function of amniotic fluid is to protect the fetus from various dangers such as injury and infection.

During pregnancy, amniotic air usually begins to be produced when the amniotic sac has formed. It usually occurs 12 days after conception. Amniotic is a fluid that comes from the mother’s body fluids. However, when entering the age of 20 weeks of pregnancy, the amniotic fluid will mix with the air released by the fetus.

The amniotic fluid itself is usually clear but odorless. This water consists of several components, such as hormones, nutrients, and fetal urine. With the presence of amniotic fluid, the fetus can develop, breathe, move and swallow. So what are the functions of amniotic fluid for the fetus? Here’s the review.

The Important Function of Amniotic Fluid for the Fetus 

Amniotic fluid has a very important function in the growth and development of the fetus in the womb. You need to know the various functions of amniotic fluid for the fetus.

1. Protect Fetus from Injury

One of the main functions of the amniotic fluid is to protect the fetus at risk from the consequences. This function will be very useful when the mother accidentally falls during pregnancy to keep the fetus in the womb safe.

2. Becoming a Wiggle Room for the Fetus

The next function of amniotic fluid is to become a space for movement for the Fetus in the womb. With this amniotic fluid, the baby can move freely and its development. Amniotic fluid is also useful to keep the umbilical cord from pinched between the uterine wall and the Fetus.

3. Prevents Infection in the Fetus

Amniotic fluid also serves to maintain and prevent the Fetus from experiencing Infection while in the womb. Amniotic fluid contains antibody cells that are useful for fighting infections that enter the uterus.

4. Make the Fetus Feel Cmfortable

Another function of amniotic fluid is to make the Fetus feel comfortable in the womb. You need to know that the amniotic fluid has a temperature of around 37.5 degrees Celsius. This temperature can provide warmth and comfort to the Fetus while in the womb.

5. Supports Lung Development

While in the womb, the Fetus breathes not by inhaling air but by swallowing amniotic fluid. This condition usually begins to occur at the age of 10 to 11 weeks of pregnancy. Entering the age of 32 weeks of pregnancy, the Fetus begins to breathe with the lungs. Later the new baby’s lungs will be perfect at 36 weeks of gestation.

6. Supports Digestive System Development

While in the womb, the Fetus learns to swallow by drinking amniotic fluid. The amniotic fluid that enters the Fetus’s body will then be released back into the urine. If the volume of amniotic fluid is too much, this can indicate a digestive disorder in the Fetus.

The condition of the amniotic fluid during labor can also indicate that it is time for the Fetus to be born. The rupture of the amniotic fluid usually marks the process of giving birth. If you experience these conditions, it’s a good idea to immediately visit the nearest medical facility to ensure the Fetus can be born safely.

Amniotic fluid has a very important function and role in the development of the Fetus in the womb. Therefore, to optimize the function of amniotic fluid, you need to ensure the amount is in accordance with the gestational age. If there is a problem with your amniotic fluid, it can threaten the baby’s safety. So make sure to regularly consult and check with your obstetrician to ensure the amniotic fluid and the Fetus are in good condition.