Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is offered to women 35 years of age and older and is performed between 16-20 weeks of pregnancy as an in-office procedure. To perform the procedure, your doctor guides a thin needle through your abdomen and uterus. A small sample of amniotic fluid is withdrawn and sent to a lab.

In the lab, cells from the baby that were taken from the amniotic fluid are grown in a special culture. This usually takes about 10-12 days. Next, the chromosomes in these cells are studied under a microscope. This shows if there is an extra chromosome (as in Down syndrome) or other chromosomal defects.

Complications from amniocentesis are uncommon. Side effects may include cramping, vaginal bleeding, infection and leaking amniotic fluid.

Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in the Contemporary Women’s Care website should be relied upon for medical education purposes only. It is not intended to replace the independent judgment of a health care provider. The appropriateness of a course of treatment for a patient may vary from the medical information provided herein due to individual conditions and/or complications.