When is amniocentesis warranted

Preferences were assessed using written scenarios describing potential outcomes of prenatal testing, and were recorded on linear rating scales.

The differences in preference ratings for first- vs second-trimester prenatal diagnosis of a normal child 4. There were no significant differences between chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis patients in their preference ratings for test-related miscarriage, disconfirmed results at pregnancy termination, or maternal morbidity from therapeutic abortion.

After adjusting for demographic and obstetric factors, the difference in preferences for early vs late prenatal diagnosis was an independent predictor of the choice of chorionic villus sampling in a multivariate model. This can lead to Rh sensitization and breaking down of fetal red blood cells if you are Rh negative and your baby is Rh positive.

You may or may not be asked to empty your bladder right before the procedure. In early pregnancy, a full bladder helps move the uterus into a better position for the procedure. In later pregnancy, the bladder should be empty to lower the risk of puncture with the amniocentesis needle. Follow any other instructions your provider gives you to get ready. What happens during an amniocentesis? Generally, an amniocentesis follows this process: You will need to undress completely, or from the waist down, and put on a hospital gown.

You will be asked to lie down on an exam table and place your hands behind your head. Your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate will be checked. An ultrasound will be used to check the fetal heart rate; the position of the placenta, fetus, and umbilical cord; and to find a pocket of amniotic fluid. Your abdomen will be cleaned with an antiseptic. You will be told not to touch the sterile area on your abdomen during the procedure. You will feel a needle stick if a numbing drug is injected.

This may cause brief stinging. When your skin is numb, an ultrasound will be used to help guide a long, thin, hollow needle through your skin, into the uterus, and into the amniotic sac.

This may be slightly painful. You may feel some cramping as the needle enters the uterus. The doctor will withdraw a small amount of amniotic fluid into a syringe. The amount depends on the type of testing that will be done, but usually no more than an ounce is removed.

Your body will make fluid to replace the amount taken out. You may feel a tugging or pulling feeling as the fluid is removed. The needle will be removed. The amniotic fluid will be put into a special light-protected container and sent to the lab. A bandage will be placed over the needle site.

The fetus' heart rate and your vital signs will be checked. If you are Rh negative, you may be given Rhogam, a special injection that can prevent an Rh negative mother's antibodies from attacking Rh positive fetal blood cells.

The prenatal test is generally offered to women who have a significant risk for genetic diseases, including those who:. Amniocentesis does not detect all birth defects, but it can be used to detect the following conditions if the parents have a significant genetic risk:. Amniocentesis can also detect certain neural tube defects diseases where the brain and spinal column don't develop properly such as spina bifida and anencephaly. An ultrasound is performed at the time of amniocentesis because it may detect birth defects that are not detected by amniocentesis such as cleft palate, cleft lip, club foot, or heart defects.

There are some birth defects, however, that will not be detected by either amniocentesis or ultrasound. If you are having an amniocentesis you may ask to find out the baby's sex. An amniocentesis is the most accurate way to determine the baby's gender before birth. An amniocentesis can also be done during the third trimester of the pregnancy to determine if the baby's lungs are mature enough where an early delivery may be warranted.

Another indication could be to evaluate for infection in the amniotic fluid in certain situations. If your doctor has recommended an amniocentesis, the procedure is usually scheduled between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy. To learn more about CareCredit contact us at