Amniocentesis Service

Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic test that involves obtaining a small sample of amniotic fluid for analysis. Amniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds the developing fetus in the uterus, and contains cells that can be used for genetic testing. Amniocentesis is usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Amniocentesis is typically performed to diagnose genetic or chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or Tay-Sachs disease. It can also be used to diagnose certain fetal infections.

WHY IS AMNIOCENTESIS DONE?

Amniocentesis is typically performed to diagnose genetic or chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or Tay-Sachs disease. It can also be used to diagnose certain fetal infections.

Here are some of the reasons why amniocentesis may be recommended:

• Advanced maternal age: Women who are 35 years of age or older at the time of delivery have a higher risk of having a baby with a chromosomal abnormality, and may be offered amniocentesis to screen for these conditions.
• Abnormal ultrasound findings: If an ultrasound examination reveals abnormalities in the fetus, amniocentesis may be recommended to further evaluate these findings.
• Family history: If there is a family history of genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease, amniocentesis may be recommended to determine whether the fetus has inherited these conditions.
• Previous pregnancy with chromosomal abnormality: Women who have had a previous pregnancy with a chromosomal abnormality may be offered amniocentesis in subsequent pregnancies to screen for these conditions.

It’s important to note that while amniocentesis is generally considered safe, there is a small risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, and miscarriage. Your healthcare provider will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with you and help you make an informed decision about whether amniocentesis is right for you.

HOW IS AMNIOCENTESIS DONE?

Amniocentesis is usually performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy and involves the following steps:

What should I expect before the procedure?

Before the procedure, you may be asked to empty your bladder and change into a hospital gown. An ultrasound will be used to locate the fetus and guide the needle insertion.

What should I expect during the procedure?

A local anesthetic will be used to numb the skin on your abdomen where the needle will be inserted. You may feel some pressure or discomfort, but the procedure is generally not painful.

Using ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is inserted through your abdomen and into the amniotic sac that surrounds the fetus. A small amount of amniotic fluid is then drawn out and collected in a sterile syringe.

What should I expect after the procedure?

Amniocentesis is a medical procedure used to obtain a small sample of amniotic fluid from the sac surrounding the developing fetus. This sample can be tested to identify genetic abnormalities or other potential health issues in the fetus.

Here are some things you can expect after an amniocentesis procedure:

• Mild discomfort: You may experience some mild discomfort, cramping, or pressure in the lower abdomen during the procedure. You may also feel some mild to moderate pain or discomfort for a short time afterward. However, the discomfort should be manageable and subside within a few hours.
• Rest: You’ll be advised to rest for a few hours after the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding or other complications. You should avoid strenuous physical activity for the next day or two.
• Spotting or bleeding: It’s common to experience some spotting or light bleeding for a day or two after the procedure. However, if you experience heavy bleeding, cramping, or fever, you should contact your doctor immediately.
• Results: It may take several days to receive the results of the amniocentesis, depending on the specific tests performed. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and provide appropriate counseling and treatment options.
• Follow-up care: After the procedure, your doctor may recommend additional ultrasounds or tests to monitor the fetus’s health and development.

Overall, while amniocentesis is a routine procedure, it does carry some risks, and it’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

what are the risk associated with amniocentesis?

While amniocentesis is generally considered a safe and routine procedure, it does carry some risks.

These risks include:

• Miscarriage: There is a small risk of miscarriage associated with amniocentesis, estimated to be around 1 in 300 to 1 in 500 procedures. The risk is higher in women who have the procedure earlier in pregnancy.
• Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the site where the needle is inserted into the uterus. Signs of infection include fever, chills, and abdominal pain.
• Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding or hemorrhage from the needle insertion site, which can be serious in rare cases.
• Leakage of amniotic fluid: There is a small risk of leakage of amniotic fluid from the needle insertion site, which can lead to premature labor or other complications.
• Rh sensitization: In rare cases, amniocentesis can cause Rh sensitization in Rh-negative mothers. This can lead to complications in future pregnancies if the fetus is Rh-positive.

It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of amniocentesis with your doctor before deciding to have the procedure. Your doctor can help you understand your individual risk factors and determine if the procedure is appropriate for you.