Often referred to as the "water" or "waters," amniotic fluid surrounds the fetus during pregnancy and plays a vital role in fetal development. Here's everything you need to know. Medically reviewed by ...

Many factors, including genetics, stress, and environmental exposure, can shape pregnancy and fetal development. Physicians who care for pregnant patients and their babies before and after birth work ...

During pregnancy, a fetus grows inside of the uterus surrounded by a liquid called the amniotic fluid. This watery world provides the developing baby with a protective barrier against physical injury.