|
Q: I am scheduled to have amniocentesis. What should I expect?
A: Amniocentesis, a prenatal test that involves removing a sample of amniotic fluid from your womb, is usually done at at or after 15 weeks of pregnancy. It is usually given in these circumstances:
- the quad screen picked up any potential abnormalities,
- the expectant mother is age 35 or over,
- there is a family history of certain health problems or
- the mother wants to know if there are any concerns about missing or extra chromosomes.
Like CVS, a test given in the first trimester, amniocentesis carries a very small risk of miscarriage, but in the vast majority of cases, there are no negative side effects.
During the procedure, a thin needle is inserted through your abdomen into the womb to withdraw a small amount of fluid. The baby will not be hurt during the procedure, and your body will make more fluid to replace the fluid that is taken out.
Some women feel mild cramping during or after the procedure. You may be told to rest on the day of the test, but usually you can resume normal activity the next day. Test results can be available within 24 hours in some cases, but final results usually aren’t ready until about 2 weeks after the test is performed.
| 