Amniotic fluidAmniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds the fetus after the first weeks of gestation and is contained within the amniotic cavity. It surrounds the growing fetus, protecting it from external pressure. The fluid is initially secreted by the amnion and is subsequently supplemented by urine from the fetal kidneys. Some of the liquid is swallowed by the fetus and absorbed by the fetal intestine. It has a similar composition to blood plasma and is initially produced by the transport of fluid across the amniotic membrane itself. From week 16 onwards, fetal urine makes an important contribution to the amniotic fluid. If the fetus does not expel urine, the volume of amniotic fluid will be low and lead to a condition known as oligohydramnios. Functions of amniotic fluid • Antibacterial properties that protect the fetus from infections: experimental evidence has shown that there is a bacterial inhibitor sensitive to phosphates. 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 because its molecular dimensions are similar to those of hormones and antibiotics. • Growth and development of the fetal lungs: Enough amniotic fluid must be present to prevent lung compression, normal fetal respiratory movements, and volume of fluid within the developing airways. With the presence of sufficient fluid it creates sufficient amniotic pressure, forcing the tracheal pressure of the fetus to be higher. The difference creates a relaxing pressure that promotes lung growth.• Growth and development of the gastrointestinal tract...... half of the article ......en 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 the drug was discontinued, the development of oligohydramnios no longer occurred. (Hendricks, 1990) Effects on fetal development A small amniotic cavity can hinder the growth of the fetus, causing deformations and causing various congenital malformations, especially pulmonary hypoplasia. Due to oligohydramnios, the fetus may suffer from Potter syndrome (also known as Potter sequence or oligohydramnios sequence). The main problem of Potter syndrome is kidney failure. With a lack of amniotic fluid, the fetus is not protected from the pressure exerted by the uterine walls, resulting in an unusual facial appearance.