Amniotic fluid index
Abbreviation: AFI
The amniotic fluid index, or AFI, is a measurement your doctor or sonographer takes during an ultrasound to estimate how much fluid is around your baby. The abdomen is divided into four sections and the deepest pool of fluid in each is measured in centimetres. The four numbers are added together to give the AFI score. A normal AFI is generally between 8 and 24 centimetres. An AFI below 5 to 8 may suggest oligohydramnios, while a score above 24 may indicate polyhydramnios. Both conditions can affect your baby's wellbeing and may need closer monitoring or treatment.
What This Means for You
Understanding Amniotic fluid index is an important part of your second/third trimester journey. During pregnancy, your care team will use this term regularly. Being familiar with it means you can ask better questions and feel more confident at your antenatal appointments.
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AFI checks are routine in third-trimester growth scans at Singapore hospitals. Your doctor may request more frequent scans if your score falls outside the normal range, especially if you have gestational diabetes or are post-dates.
Related Terms
Source: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
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