In following which statement is not true regarding amniotic fluid:
A. At term it measures about 600-800 ml
B.It is alkaline in nature
C. Specific gravity is about 1.010
D. Near term its colour is golden
Correct Answer: D. Near term its colour is golden
Explanation
This question is usually asked as an MCQ, where you are asked to identify the incorrect (not true) statement about amniotic fluid.
Since the options are not given, I’ll first explain true facts, then mention commonly incorrect statements that are often asked in exams.
Amniotic Fluid – Important True Facts
- Origin
- In early pregnancy: formed mainly from maternal plasma
- In late pregnancy: formed mainly from fetal urine and lung secretions
- Volume
- At term: about 800–1000 mL
- Maximum around 34–36 weeks
- Nature
- Clear, pale yellow
- Slightly alkaline (pH ~7.0–7.5)
- Functions
- Protects fetus from trauma
- Maintains temperature
- Allows free fetal movements
- Prevents adhesion of fetus to membranes
- Helps in lung development
Commonly Asked NOT TRUE Statements
These are incorrect and often tested:
❌ Amniotic fluid is mainly formed from maternal urine
➡ Not true (it is fetal urine in late pregnancy)
❌ Amniotic fluid is acidic
➡ Not true (it is slightly alkaline)
❌ Amniotic fluid volume increases till term
➡ Not true (it decreases after 36 weeks)
❌ Amniotic fluid has no role in fetal lung development
➡ Not true (it is essential for lung development)
How to Answer in Exam
- Read each statement
- Match it with known physiology of amniotic fluid
- Select the one that contradicts these facts
Other Options Details
These options are describing properties of amniotic fluid. I’ll explain each one clearly:
A. At term it measures about 600–800 mL
✔ True
- The volume of amniotic fluid gradually increases during pregnancy.
- It reaches a maximum of about 800–1000 mL at 36–38 weeks, and
- At term, the average volume is around 600–800 mL.
B. It is alkaline in nature
✔ True
- Amniotic fluid is slightly alkaline, with a pH around 7.0–7.5.
- This alkalinity helps protect the fetus and is useful clinically (e.g., distinguishing amniotic fluid from urine or vaginal secretions).
C. Specific gravity is about 1.010
✔ True
- The specific gravity of amniotic fluid is low, usually 1.005–1.010.
- This low value reflects its composition, which is mostly water with dissolved electrolytes, proteins, and fetal cells.
D. Near term its colour is golden
✔ True
- In early pregnancy, amniotic fluid is clear and colorless.
- Near term, it becomes pale straw-colored or golden due to:
- Vernix caseosa
- Fetal skin cells
- Lanugo hair
Summary
All the given statements (A–D) are correct descriptions of amniotic fluid near term.
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group