Amniocentisis

One of the most well-known prenatal tests, amniocentisis is used to establish if a baby is affected by chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome. It can also pick up musculoskeletal disorders such as spina bifidaandcystic fibrosis.

During the test, a sample of amniotic fluid – the fluid that surrounds your baby in the uterus – is taken for testing. It contains cells shed from your baby, which can then be checked for a range of different medical conditions. The test is carried out at 14-20 weeks.

What happens during the amniocentisis?

Under ultrasound guidance, your caregiver inserts a long, fine needle through your abdomen and into your uterus to withdraw a sample of amniotic fluid. The process takes 10-30 minutes and you’ll be advised to rest well for the next 24 hours.

Side effects

You may experience mild abdominal cramps or pains – however there are more far-reaching implications of having an amniocentisis and these must be considered before you decide to go ahead and have the test. There is a small risk the needle could harm your baby but this is unlikely, due to the fact that your doctor will use the ultrasound to pinpoint an area of amniotic fluid that’s well away from where he’s lying. There’s also a tiny possibility that your baby’s blood might mix with yours, which could cause complications if you’re rhesus-negative. If this happens you’ll be given an injection to prevent your immune system from manufacturing antibodies that could harm your baby.

There is also a small risk of miscarriage, which you need to weigh up before proceeding with the test. You also need to think about what you’d do if your baby was diagnosed with an abnormality. Depending on how far along you are you may have started to feel him move, which could make a termination very traumatic if you felt that option was best for you.

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

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Last Modified: 21/06/2007

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