
Amniotic fluid index
The amniotic fluid index (AFI) is a measure used during pregnancy to assess the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby in the womb. Amniotic fluid is the protective liquid that cushions the baby, allowing it to move and develop properly. During an ultrasound, doctors divide the uterus into four sections, measure the deepest pocket of fluid in each, and add these measurements together to get the AFI. This value helps monitor the baby's health, ensuring there is enough fluid for proper growth or identifying potential issues like either too little or too much fluid.