What does A.F. mean in PHYSIOLOGY
Amniotic fluid is one of the most essential components in the development of a healthy baby. The main purpose of amniotic fluid is to protect and cushion the baby from potential harm while it's still in the womb. Amniotic fluid also helps allow for proper development of bones, muscles, organs, and other body systems as the baby grows throughout gestation. A.F., or Amniotic Fluid, is an abbreviation used to refer to this important bodily fluid.
A.F. meaning in Physiology in Medical
A.F. mostly used in an acronym Physiology in Category Medical that means Amniotic Fluid
Shorthand: A.F.,
Full Form: Amniotic Fluid
For more information of "Amniotic Fluid", see the section below.
» Medical » Physiology
What Is It?
Amniotic fluid is thin and slightly yellowish in color, which can be seen when it leaks out during pregnancy at certain times along the birthing process. This fluid contains essential proteins, hormones, electrolytes, cells (including stem cells), enzymes and antibodies that are all necessary for fetal growth and development. It allows for free movement inside the womb so that a fetus can move around safely, as well as helping to regulate body temperature and aid in lung maturation. A fetus will start producing urine at about 16 weeks gestation and this will add additional material to the amniotic fluid until delivery when all of it will be expelled out through birth.
Essential Questions and Answers on Amniotic Fluid in "MEDICAL»PHYSIOLOGY"
What is Amniotic Fluid?
Amniotic fluid is a fluid that surrounds the baby in the uterus during pregnancy. It helps to cushion, protect and support the unborn baby in the womb. It also contains substances like proteins, hormones, minerals and sugars that all help with baby's growth and development.
Is Amniotic Fluid important for a healthy pregnancy?
Yes, amniotic fluid is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy. It protects your baby from shocks, works as a cushion between your developing baby's body and uterine wall, keeps nutrition levels steady, helps control body temperature and even helps your baby develop reflexes.
How much Amniotic Fluid should there be during pregnancy?
The amount of amniotic fluid varies at different stages of pregnancy. Generally speaking, your doctor will expect to see somewhere between 50-500ml of amniotic fluid at term - which is around 40 weeks of gestation.
What are some common signs of too little or too much amniotic fluid?
Too little amniotic fluid (oligohydramios) is usually associated with labour issues such as preterm labour or slow fetal growth. Too much amniotic fluid (polyhydramios) can likewise lead to complications such as increased risk for birth defects or cord prolapse during delivery.
What is an Amniocentesis?
An amniocentesis is a diagnostic test performed on pregnant women to check the health status of their growing baby by analyzing the cells present in the amniotic fluid surrounding them in utero.
Who might need an Amniocentesis?
Women over 35 years old or those who have known genetic conditions may be recommended for an amniocentesis by their doctor; however anyone may opt for it if they wish to have additional information about their developing fetus' health.
What can an Amniocentesis reveal about my unborn child?
An amniocentesis can reveal chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, rare genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or muscular dystrophy, and any other inherited disorders that may be present in your family history. It can also check for infection of any kind within the womb that could be affecting your developing fetus' health directly.
Are there any risks involved with having an Amniocentesis done?
An ultrasound-guided amniocentesis performed by a trained professional is generally safe with a very low risk rate. The most common complication observed following its performance include pain, tenderness or mild bleeding around the belly button area where it was injected; however serious medical issues such as miscarriage or infections are extremely rare unless caused due to medical negligence.
Final Words:
A.F., or Amniotic Fluid is an abbreviation commonly used to refer to amniotic fluid - a substance that is essential for healthy fetal development and a successful pregnancy outcome. It plays an important role throughout fetal growth by protecting and cushioning the baby while still providing nourishment and allowing for normal movements within the womb's confines until delivery occurs.