Determination of Deuterium Exchange Rates Between Maternal Circulation and Amniotic Fluid.

Abstract

Regarding the pregnant organism as a multi-compartment system the exchange rate of water in amniotic fluid with the water of maternal and fetal systems was detd. By the use of transabdominal catheters placed in the amniotic sac of pregnant women at term, the fluid could be withdrawn at desired intervals without disturbing the continuity of the system. The tracer was first placed in one compartment and then in the other and the exchange rates in both directions were found to be about 600 cc./hr.