Amniocentesis is a procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells, is extracted from the sac surrounding the developing baby.
Fluid from amniocentesis can be examined for:
Chromosomal analysis ( To examine for chromosome problems such as Down Syndrome)
Infection (Bacteria and viruses, including CMV, Parvovirus, and Herpes virus)
Fetal Lung Maturity assays (To help determine if the baby’s lungs are able to breath air once delivered)
Possible complications are rare (less than 1 in 300) and include:
Infection of the amniotic sac from the needle
Failure of the puncture to heal properly
Leakage of amniotic fluid.
Initiation of labor or miscarriage (Very rare).
Most patients (more than 70%) report very minor discomfort while undergoing the procedure.
The entire procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance, ensuring the needle does not harm your baby.
Your doctor at RPG will discuss Amniocentesis with you at length and answer any questions you may have prior to performing the procedure.