What Is Amniocentesis? Test, Results, Risks

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What Is Amniocentesis?

Reviewed By: Andrew Seibert,

SOURCES: American Academy of Family Physicians. March of Dimes. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. The National Women’ Health Information Center. U.S. National Library of Medicine.

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Amniocentesis

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Amniocentesis is a procedure that lets doctors detect or rule out problems with your babies health long before birth. In the uterus your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid that provides protection and nourishment. Floating in the fluid is cells from your baby providing doctors with genetic material for testing. In amniocentesis your doctors will take a sample of this fluid to test for specific genetic disorders and birth defects. Amniocentesis is usually done in the 2nd tri-mester of pregnancy at 15 to 18 weeks. It is generally offered to women with certain risk factors. Age 35 and older, which increases the risk of chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome. A previous child or pregnancy with a birth defect. Blood test or ultrasound suggesting a birth defect such as down syndrome or neuro-tube defects Or a family history of birth defects such as cystic fibrosis. Amniocentesis may also be done in the 3rd tri-mester for these reasons. To determine if the baby’s lungs are mature enough should early delivery becomes necessary. To diagnosis a uterine infection. Or To check for anemia in a baby with RH incompatibility. To begin the procedure the doctor would use an ultrasound to create an image of the fetus and nearby structures on a computer screen. Looking at this image the doctor can choose a safe place to insert the needle. Your doctor may give you an injection of local anesthesia to numb the surface of the abdomen where the amniocentesis needle is to be inserted. Carefully watching the ultrasound monitor to avoid contact with the placenta or the baby, your doctor will introduce the thin needle through your abdominal wall into your uterus and into the amniotic sack. He or she will with draw a small sample of amniotic fluid, remove the needle and cover the site with a bandage. Your body will make additional fluid to replace what was removed. Your doctor will continue to monitor the ultrasound to check that the fetal heartbeat is normal and the baby tolerated the procedure well. You may feel mild cramping or pressure in your lower abdomen. For about 24 hours after the procedure you will be advised to avoid physical stress such as vigorous exercise, lifting, prolong standing , and sexual activity.