Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid

Abstract

The amniotic cavity is filled with a clear, watery fluid which rs produced in part by amniotic cells, but is derived primarily from maternal blood. 'During the early months of pregnancy, the embryo is suspended by its umbilical cord in the fluid, preventing the adherence of the embryo to the amnion and allowing for fetal movement.

The amniotic fluid provides a medium in which the fetus can readily move, cushions the fetus against possible injury, helps maintain an even temperature, and provides, when appropriately tested, useful information concerning the health and maturity of the fetus. If the presenting part of the fetus is 1101 closely applied to the lower uterine segment during labour, the hydrostatic action of the amniotic fluid has a very important action in the dilatation of the cervix during the process of labour.

Passage of meconium in utero with staining of the amniotic

, fluid occurs in 12% to 16% of all deliveries.

' Meconi um passage is rare before 34 weeks of gestational age, but it occurs in up to 20% of full-term gestations and in