B-ultrasound amniotic fluid index and measurement

Speaking of the medical term amniotic fluid, it is no stranger to all female friends who have been mothers or are preparing to be mothers. However, most people only know that it plays an important role in the growth and nutrient absorption of infants. They still don’t know much about how to judge too much or too little amniotic fluid, what data there are, including measurement methods, etc. So below we will explain the B-ultrasound amniotic fluid index and other aspects for your reference.

The amniotic fluid index is calculated by adding the depth of amniotic fluid in four areas (upper, lower, left and right) centered on the pregnant woman's navel during B-ultrasound. The amount of amniotic fluid gradually increases as the fetus grows. So, what are the index standards of amniotic fluid at different stages?

1. Depth of amniotic fluid

Ultrasound examination indicates the vertical depth of the largest amniotic fluid pool. Less than 2 cm indicates too little amniotic fluid, while greater than 8 cm indicates too much amniotic fluid. It is a medical term and an important indicator for determining the amount of amniotic fluid. If there is more amniotic fluid, the fetus can grow healthily; if there is less amniotic fluid, it can cause meconium accumulation during the fetal delivery period, or even premature birth or suffocation. B-ultrasound examination shows the vertical depth of the largest amniotic fluid pool. A depth of 3-8cm is considered normal. Less than 3cm indicates oligohydramnios, while greater than 8cm indicates polyhydramnios.

2. Amniotic fluid index

The uterus is divided into four quadrants: upper left, upper right, lower left and lower right. The sum of the maximum vertical depths of the dark areas of amniotic fluid in the four quadrants is AFL. If AFL is greater than 24cm, it is diagnosed as polyhydramnios. If AFL is between 18-24cm, it is suspected polyhydramnios or too much amniotic fluid.

3. Amniotic fluid measurement

Currently, most hospitals use ultrasound to understand the amount of amniotic fluid and adopt the "amniotic fluid index method" to determine whether the amount of amniotic fluid is normal. The method is: divide the uterus into four quadrants, measure the maximum depth of the amniotic fluid in each quadrant, and then add up the total. A total value between 8 and 27 cm is considered normal, a value less than 8 indicates oligohydramnios, and a value greater than 24 indicates polyhydramnios.

At this point, I believe that all expectant mothers have a certain understanding of the relevant index data and range of amniotic fluid. Therefore, when doing regular prenatal check-ups, they should pay special attention to some of the examination data in this part. If there is too much or too little amniotic fluid, they must pay enough attention, because this involves at least two lives. They must seek medical attention as soon as possible and listen to the doctor's advice to take early action.