Q1: What is Amniocentesis?

Amniocentesis is a prenatal test to diagnose any conditions or serious health problems of your growing fetus.  Amniotic fluid is a clear, slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds and protects your growing fetus in the uterus. Under the ultrasound, about 20ml samples of amniotic fluid are removed through a fine needle inserted into the uterus through the abdomen, uterine wall and amniotic sac. Amniocentesis is usually performed between 16-20 weeks. There is  200-300cc of amniotic fluid in the amniotic sac in this period, so the sample is easy to get without hurting the fetus. The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Q2: Is it safe?

Normally, you can go home after having amniocentesis. Although amniocentesis risk is lower,  miscarriage may happen and become the primary risk due to infection in the uterus or water breaks. According to American Pregnancy Association, it occurs up to 1 out of every 400.  It is encouraged to talk with your OB-GYN doctor to fully understand the risk and the need to have amniocentesis.

Q3: You need to have amniocentesis if…

• You are 35 years old or older
• You are at high risk of down syndrome
• You have a family history of birth defects or other disorders
• You have birth defect in a previous pregnancy
• You had a chromosomal condition or a neural tube defect in a previous pregnancy
• You have too much amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios)

Amniocentesis is not a compulsory test for all pregnant mums. You can take an amniocentesis test if your baby has a higher chance of developing birth defects or other health problems.

Q4: What kind of potential health problems can be detected?

Some chromosome abnormalities, neural tube defects, and genetic disorders can be detected like down syndrome or trisomy 21, Edward’s syndrome, Patau’s syndrome, spina bifida and cystic fibrosis. What’s more, an amniocentesis can determine if the baby’s lungs are mature enough for delivery, or to evaluate the amniotic fluid for infection.

Q5: What you need to take note of after amniocentesis?

• Stay at home and take a good rest after the amniocentesis.
• Avoid lifting up heavy items, having sex or doing strenuous exercise within 2 weeks.
• Only 2 percent of pregnant mums may have mild cramping after amniocentesis. Normally the symptoms are relieved or disappeared after taking rest.
• If you have side effects like severe pain, fever, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding or leakage of fluid, please seek the doctor immediately.