Sodium [Substance Concentration] in Amniotic Fluid

What Is Being Measured

Sodium is an electrolyte, a mineral that carries an electrical charge and helps regulate the balance of water in and around the body's cells. This test determines the substance concentration of sodium in amniotic fluid, which is the fluid surrounding a baby in the womb. The result reflects how much sodium is present in a defined volume of that fluid.

Why the Test Is Performed

Measuring sodium in amniotic fluid is generally done to assess the fluid's composition, often during procedures that evaluate fetal health or in research settings. It can provide information about electrolyte balance within the amniotic sac, which may be relevant when there are concerns about fetal kidney function or overall fetal well-being.

How the Sample Is Collected

A sample of amniotic fluid is collected by a procedure called amniocentesis. A healthcare provider inserts a thin needle through the abdominal wall into the uterus, guided by ultrasound, and withdraws a small amount of fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for chemical analysis.

What the Result Means

Your provider interprets the sodium concentration in the context of the reason for testing, the gestational age, and other test results. There is no single universal reference range, so the laboratory's own reference intervals and your clinician's judgment should be used to interpret the value. Discuss any results directly with your healthcare team.