Amniotic fluid provides a cushion for the fetus.

• A. Provides a cushion for the fetus
• B. Provides a cushion for the fetus, and is a mixture of maternal and fetal fluids
• C. Is assessed by umbilical catheterization
• D. Contains no maternal components

Answer: (A)

Amniotic fluid mainly serves to cushion and protect the fetus, allowing free movement, buffering against external trauma, and helping to regulate temperature as the fetus grows. This fluid is largely fetal in origin—generated by fetal urine and secretions—so describing it as a mixture of maternal and fetal fluids isn’t accurate. We don’t assess amniotic fluid with an umbilical catheter; ultrasound-based methods like the amniotic fluid index or deepest vertical pocket are used instead. It can contain maternal components, so the idea that it has no maternal constituents isn’t correct either.