AMNIOCENTESIS

An amniocentesis is a test that can determine birth defects in an unborn baby or check a baby's lungs to see if they are ready for delivery.

The procedure is performed by a physician and involves the insertion of a needle through the mother's abdomen into the amniotic sac to remove a small amount of fluid. The amniotic sac is a thin sac filled with fluid that surrounds the baby when you are pregnant. The sample of fluid contains cells for testing.

The procedure can be done early in the pregnancy to test for birth defects, usually 15 to 18 weeks after a woman misses her period. The results are usually available 2 to 4 weeks after the procedure is done.

The procedure can also be done toward the end of the pregnancy to test the baby's lungs to see if they are ready for the baby to be born. These results are usually available in 1 to 2 days.

The complications resulting from the amniocentesis may include cramping following the procedure, a chance of infection, early labor, and a remote chance of miscarriage.

The healthcare provider may suggest an amniocentesis be done for the following reasons:

over age 35
a previous pregnancy or child with a birth defect
a family history of mental retardation, Down syndrome, or birth defects
a history of 3 or more miscarriages
tests done earlier in the pregnancy indicate there may be a problem with the baby
you have Rh-negative blood and the baby's father has Rh-positive blood or
to see if there is an infection in the amniotic fluid

Some birth defects can be treated once they are diagnosed. For this reason it is important for a woman to have care early in her pregnancy, and when possible, see her healthcare provider before becoming pregnant.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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