Pregnancy

What is Amniocentesis?

During a pregnancy sometimes tests have to be administered to check how the fetus is doing. These tests are pretty common and can include simple blood work to a prenatal test called amniocentesis. This type of test is done to detect genetic abnormalities. The chromosomes are checked for problems that may harm the baby's health. An amniocentesis can also be used to check for the sex of the unborn child.

A long, hollow needle is used when an amniocentesis is performed. There is no need to worry about the needle touching the baby. This does not happen. This test is administered around 16 weeks of pregnancy. During the test the needle is inserted through a pregnant woman's abdominal wall and into the uterus. Next the needle withdraws amniotic fluid from the fluid filled sac where the baby has been living. The test has minimal risk for the mother to be as well as the unborn child.

Amniocentesis is used to check for birth defects. It does present a small risk for miscarriage and for this reason not every woman has to go through an amniocentesis. When there are risks for certain birth defects or abnormalities then the test is performed. A pregnant woman over the age of 35 is more susceptible to birth defects for their child than that of a woman who is younger. This is one case where an amniocentesis would be administered. Another case would be if a woman had a previous pregnancy or child born with birth defects. Family history with birth defects may also cause a woman to have to have an amniocentesis done.

For the most part an amniocentesis test is not painful. Some woman report minor cramping, pressure when the needle is inserted, and a few experience spotting after the test was done. The test is over within a few minutes. Afterwards the fluid that contains the living cells from the fetus is grown in a laboratory for a period of one to two weeks. Then the cells are tested for various chromosomal birth defects. It may take up to three weeks to get the results from the test. An amniocentesis is a great test to check for abnormalities in your unborn child. Some birth defects can be diagnosed with this type of prenatal testing which is why it is important to have done if you or your doctor has any concerns. Take good care of yourself during your pregnancy and the outcome will be better for you as wells as your new little one.