When a woman finds out she’s expecting, the marathon is on as her body encounters many changes, challenges, and monumental milestones over the next nine months. An integral part of this unique experience is how the baby grows and evolves inside the womb with the help of amniotic fluid. Below, we take a closer look at how these fluids lend a hand to the baby and mother and the various changes accompanying the process.

The Importance of Amniotic Fluid

Amniotic fluid is a fundamental ingredient for a baby while in utero. This is the protection, practice, and developmental aid for a fetus as it grows into a full-term baby. The amniotic fluid changes throughout a pregnancy just as the fetus and mother transform.

This vital fluid is designed to surround the developing fetus with a pillow-like cushion and offers a free-flowing space for the baby to develop musculoskeletal connections. As the fetus evolves through the pregnancy, the space available and the makeup of the amniotic fluid will change.

First Trimester

In the early days and weeks of a mother’s pregnancy, her body and the fetus will undergo a tremendous transformation. The hormones begin surging, and the internal foundations are laid for the developing pregnancy.

Amniotic fluid is one of the first things to begin forming inside an amniotic sac, and the body will contribute to its formation via existing water stores from the mother. The first trimester is a critical time for the amniotic sac as the value and volume of this fluid will help the fetus develop and receive the necessary components.

Second Trimester

As the baby’s lungs begin further developing in the second trimester, this amniotic fluid serves as a practice measure for the baby. The baby will begin learning the purpose and premise of its lung development and use the fluid for breathing in, swallowing, and releasing it back out. This work will help the baby learn to breathe after birth and throughout life.

During this time, the amniotic fluid should remain watery with a clear or yellow tinge. An overseeing care provider or midwife may perform an Amnicator test on the expecting mother to test the fluid’s color and pH balance or detect potential membrane ruptures and viability.

It’s vital to partner with a licensed medical professional should you suspect amniotic fluid leaking outside the average pregnancy discharge volumes and textures.

Third Trimester

In the third trimester of pregnancy, the amniotic fluids change yet again as the volume of fluid peaks between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation. The amniotic sac surrounding the baby is becoming less and less roomy as it is now nearing its arrival date.

This time period is especially significant for remaining aware of fluids discharge, consistency, and colors. The mucus plug, amniotic fluids, and typical pregnancy-related discharges can all appear near the 40th week of the pregnancy.

If you suspect your discharge is discolored or you’re worried about your experience, partner with your provider immediately.

To ensure your facility and patients receive the care, support, and assurance they need, partner with Cascade Health Care. We feature a comprehensive selection of tests and amnihooks to ensure you can provide the most necessary solutions to your clientele.