Amniocentesis

• 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: 
    1. Infection of the amniotic sac from the needle
    2. Failure of the puncture to heal properly 
    3. Leakage of amniotic fluid. 
    4. 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.