Amniotic fluid surrounds the growing fetus in the womb and protects the fetus from injury and temperature changes. It also allows for freedom of fetal movement and permits musculoskeletal development. The amniotic fluid can be withdrawn in a procedure called amniocentsis to check for chromosomal defects or other abnormalities.

Review Date: 12/5/2001 12:00:00 AM Reviewed By:A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team

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