Amniotic fluid is a colorless or pale yellow, non-odorous fluid that cushions the fetus during pregnancy. Sometimes small amounts a mucous strands from the mucous plug are seen, but in general the amniotic fluid will be clear. Any change in the color or odor of the amniotic fluid may be a sign of a potential problem. Some potential color alterations and the possible etiology are:
- Red: bleeding - often from the placenta
- Dark red: hemolized blood – often associated with fetal hemolytic disease
- Green: passage of fecal material - often associated with intrauterine fetal stress
- Yellow (dark/golden): presence of bile – associated with either hemolytic disease or the presence of old fecal material
- Brown particles: Recent passage of meconium
Any of these situations need to be immediately reported to the physician.
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