Definition

1. Noun:
   • The fluid-filled cavity that surrounds the developing embryo: In mammals, reptiles, and birds, the amniotic cavity is a sac formed by the amnion membrane. It contains amniotic fluid, which cushions and protects the embryo or fetus during development.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The amniotic cavity forms early in embryonic development.
  • Amniotic fluid within the amniotic cavity provides a protective environment for the fetus.
  • An ultrasound can be used to examine the size and contents of the amniotic cavity.

Advanced Usage

• "Expansion of the amniotic cavity": A term used in embryology to describe the normal growth of this space as the embryo develops.
  • The expansion of the amniotic cavity is a key milestone in the first trimester.
• "Integrity of the amniotic cavity": Refers to the sac being intact and not ruptured.
  • Premature rupture refers to a loss of integrity of the amniotic cavity before labor begins.

Variants and Related Words

• Amnion (noun): The thin, protective membrane that forms the wall of the amniotic cavity.
  • The amnion secretes the amniotic fluid.
• Amniotic fluid (noun): The liquid contained within the amniotic cavity.
  • The fetus swallows and inhales amniotic fluid.
• Amniotic sac (noun): A common term for the structure comprising the amnion and the amniotic cavity.
  • The baby is inside the amniotic sac.

Synonyms

• Gestational sac: A term often used in early pregnancy ultrasound, essentially synonymous with the early amniotic cavity.
• Amniotic space: A less common synonym emphasizing the cavity as a defined area.

Related Phrases

• "Rupture of membranes": The medical phrase for when the amniotic cavity breaks, releasing fluid, typically signaling the onset of labor.
  • Her labor began with the rupture of membranes.
• "Amniocentesis": A medical procedure involving the extraction of a small amount of amniotic fluid from the amniotic cavity for testing.
  • Amniocentesis can detect certain genetic conditions.

Noun

1. the fluid-filled cavity that surrounds the developing embryo