Objective: To evaluate the amniotic fluid (AF) volume in normal singleton pregnancies from 15 to 40 weeks.
Methods: This prospective study evaluated the AF volume in singleton pregnancies undergoing amniocentesis for genetic assessment of fetal karyotype, preterm labor, or fetal lung maturity. Amniotic fluid volume was determined using a dye dilution technique. To assess the relationship between AF volume and estimated gestational age, a nonlinear regression model was applied.
Results: One hundred forty-four normal singleton pregnancies had AF volume evaluated. There was wide variability in the measured AF volumes with a significant (P < .01) increase in AF volume as a function of gestational age. Growth curve modeling estimated that AF volume continued to increase until 40 weeks' gestation. Analyses of the observed AF volume indicated that AF volume nearly doubled after 30 weeks' gestation.
Conclusion: In contrast to other reports indicating that maximal AF volume in singleton gestations is expected early in the third trimester, we observed the attainment of maximal AF volume near term.