Fetal membranes

Fetal membranes are also called extraembryonic

membranes
Fetal membranes continues
• Fetal membranes consist of two layers ie
• The chorion
• The amnion
The chorion
• This is the outer layer of the two fetal membranes
• It's thicker than the amnion, friable and shaggy on
both sides .
• Internally, it's attached to the amnion by loose
areolar tissue and remnant of primitive
mesenchyme
• Externally it's covered by vestiges of trophoblastic
layer and decidual cells of the fused decidua
capsularis and parietalis.
Amnion
• It's the inner layer of the fetal membranes
• Internal surface is smooth and shiny and is in
contact with amniotic fluid.
• A fully formed amnion is 0.02-0.5mm in thickness.
Functions of fetal membranes
. Intact membranes prevent ascending uterine
infections
. Facilitates dilation of the cervix during labor
. Has got enzyme activities for steroid hormonal
metabolism
.They are rich source of glycerophospholipids
containing arachidonic acid which is a precursor of
prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha
. Contributes to the formation of liquor amnii
Clinical correlates
• Prelabor rupture of membranes (PROM)
• Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (PPROM)
• Chorioamnionitis