Ultrasonographic demonstration of floating particles in amniotic fluid

This prospective study of 131 pregnant women was designed to determine the incidence and significance of floating particles in amniotic fluid. Floating particles ranging in size from 1 to 5 mm were seen in the amniotic fluid of pregnant women at 15 to 40 weeks' gestation. Since vernix is rarely present before 35 weeks' gestation, a source other than flakes of vernix must be sought to explain the floating particles in amniotic fluid in early gestations. There was no significant difference in the sizes or numbers of particles at different gestational ages (from 15 to 40 weeks). Therefore, it is concluded that ultrasonographic demonstration of floating particles in amniotic fluid cannot be considered an indicator of fetal maturity.