What is amniocentesis?
Amniocentesis is a form of prenatal testing in which amniotic fluid is analyzed on signs of congenital defects or other problems. The procedure is purely optional, although it can be recommended for some mothers who are at higher risk and are performed by an outpatient basis. When a physician recommends amniocentesis for a patient, he should discuss risks and advantages of the procedure, allowing the patient to reach the informed decision. Women who have a family history of genetic defects can undergo amniocentesis, as well as women who want to clarify or confirm abnormal results of tests from other prenatal screening. Amniocentesis is also sometimes used when women wear a child with a conflicting blood type to ensure that the fetus is in good health.
When a woman comes to appoint an amniocentesis, she will be asked to lie on the table and her belly will be sterilized by iodine. The doctor will use an ultrasonic machine to visualize the abdomen, including the uterus and amniotic bag.The needle will be carefully guided into the amniotic bag to take a small sample of liquid, ideally without touching the baby and the liquid will be sent for testing; Many tests can be performed on the amniotic amniotid, which lasts up to three weeks in some laboratories.
Usually amniocentesis is performed around the 16th week of pregnancy. Technically, this can be done at the 11th week, but there is a greater risk of complications or abortion during pregnancy. Although it is done in the 16th week, the risk of abortion is usually around one in 200, some clinics have a level as low as one of the 400. After amniocentesis, women may feel cramped and pain. The doctor should be consulted on any breakthrough, fluid leakage or other symptoms of a child problem.
alternative to amniocentesis is sampling of chorionic villi. Sampling of chorionic lips can be performed in the earlier phase of pregnancy, but also carries other risks. For women who want to soon and answer,It's definitely a possibility.
Generally, the physician asks patients to come to discuss amniocentesis. The negative result suggests that no abnormalities have been found, which significantly increases the chance of a healthy child. However, it is impossible to test for every possible congenital defect and abortion or other events are still possible; Even after negative results, women should take care of their bodies during pregnancy. If the results are positive to the problem, the doctor will discuss what it means with the patient and will also be discussed options.