Amniotic fluidAmniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds the fetus after the first weeks of gestation and is contained in the amniotic cavity. It surrounds the growing fetus, protecting it from external pressures. The fluid is initially secreted by the amnion and is then supplemented by urine from the fetal kidneys. Some of the fluid is swallowed by the fetus and absorbed through the fetal intestine. Its composition is similar to that of blood plasma and is initially produced by the transport of fluid across the amniotic membrane itself. From the 16th week, fetal urine makes a significant contribution to amniotic fluid. If the fetus is not excreting urine, the volume of amniotic fluid will be low and will result in a condition known as oligohydramnios. Functions of amniotic fluid • Antibacterial properties that protect the fetus from infections: experimental evidence has shown the presence of a phosphate-sensitive bacterial inhibitor. This inhibitor can serve as a primary defense against invading microbes, primarily Gram-negative bacteria. The sensitivity to phosphate ions is what makes this bacterial inhibitor unique compared to other inhibitor systems. The peptide component of the inhibitor also makes the system special by its molecular size similar to that of hormones and antibiotics. • Growth and development of fetal lungs: There must be sufficient amniotic fluid to prevent lung compression, normal fetal respiratory movements, and fluid volume in the developing airway. With the presence of enough fluid, this creates sufficient amniotic pressure, forcing the fetal tracheal pressure to be higher. The differential creates a distension pressure that promotes lung growth.• Growth and development of the gastrointestinal...... middle of paper ......in these inhibitors (indomethacin and ibuprofen) for more than 72 hours; 26 of 37 women (70%) developed oligohydramnios when treated with indomethacin, and 8 of 30 women (27%) developed oligohydramnios when treated with ibuprofen. Once treatment was stopped, there was no further development of oligohydramnios. (Hendricks, 1990)Effects on fetal developmentA small amniotic cavity can interfere with fetal growth, leading to deformities, and cause various birth defects, including pulmonary hypoplasia. As a result of oligohydramnios, the fetus may suffer from Potter syndrome (also known as Potter sequence or oligohydramnios sequence). The main problem with Potter syndrome is kidney failure. When there is a lack of amniotic fluid, the fetus is not protected from pressure from the uterine walls, resulting in an unusual facial appearance..