A study of the effect of abnormal amniotic fluid volume on maternal and fetal outcome

Abstract

Background: Amniotic fluid has many important functions and is regulated by multiple factors. 
It 
integral to fetal development, including fetal pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and 
musculoskeletal maturation. It also acts to cushion the fetus from trauma. It is also believed to be 
sterile and possesses bacteriostatic properties. Amniotic fluid is regulated by fetal swallowing, 
fetal urine production, lung secretions, and intramembranous absorption. Amniotic fluid 
abnormalities (either increased or decreased fluid) are due to dysregulation of these processes 
from maternal or fetal disease. Normal amniotic fluid volume has been extensively studied using 
direct measurement, dye dilution methods, and ultrasound estimation.