Lhok Uhhr (Assembler Igniter)

Ah, the AFI. I remember being quite curious about this myself during my pregnancy.

Generally, a normal Amniotic Fluid Index is considered to be between 5 cm and 25 cm. You see, during an ultrasound, the technician measures the largest pocket of fluid in four different sections of the uterus. They then add these numbers together to get your final AFI score.

A measurement below 5 cm is usually considered low, which is called oligohydramnios. A result over 24 or 25 cm is considered high, or polyhydramnios.

Of course, what is "normal" can vary slightly depending on how far along you are. It is always best to discuss your specific result with your doctor. They will provide the right context for you.

Quite simply, it’s all down to their job. Meristematic cells are constantly and rapidly dividing to create new growth. A large central vacuole, which is mainly for storage and providing structural support in mature cells, would be a massive hindrance. These active cells need their space for a dense cytoplasm and a prominent nucleus, packed with all the machinery for division. A big, watery vacuole would just get in the way of this vital process.