Procedure: Amniotic Fluid Tests

The main types of tests of amniotic fluid , used during labour as an indication of foetal well-being, include:

• Amniotic fluid volume. The volume of amniotic fluid has been found to decrease as pregnancies continue past 41 weeks (estimated 150-170ml per week after 42 weeks). The reason for this decrease is not completely understood but may be due to decrease foetal urine production. This test is currently considered one of the most sensitive for postterm foetal surveillance.
• Amnioscopy / Amniocentesis are used in assessing the presence of meconium . It is known that postterm pregnancies are frequently complicated by meconium staining of the amniotic fluid and that meconium staining of the amniotic fluid is associated with higher risks of adverse perinatal outcome.

The information in this page is presented in summarised form and has been taken from the following source(s):
1. Hygeia Foundation : http://hygeia.org/