Amniocentesis
This webpage will give you information about an amniocentesis.
If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant
health professional.
What is an amniocentesis?
An amniocentesis involves using a needle to remove some of the
amniotic fluid that surrounds your baby in your uterus (womb). It
can usually be performed from 15 weeks of your pregnancy.
An amniocentesis can help find out if your baby has one of the
following problems.
- A chromosome disorder such as Down’s syndrome.
- A genetic or hereditary disease such as cystic fibrosis or
sickle cell anaemia.
- A neural tube defect such as spina bifida.
- A Rhesus problem.
However, an amniocentesis does not cover all possible
problems.
In the later stages of pregnancy, an amniocentesis can show if
you have an infection. It can also help find out how mature your
baby’s lungs are, in case you need an early delivery or are in
premature labour.
Are there any alternatives to an amniocentesis?
Chorionic villus sampling is a procedure that involves removing
a small piece of the placenta and can be performed between 11 and
13 weeks. It is possible to have a detailed scan or a blood test
but these tests can only show if your baby may
have a problem.
What does the procedure involve?
Removing the fluid usually takes about 30 seconds.
Your obstetrician will place the needle in the skin, through
your abdominal wall and into your womb (see figure 1).
Figure 1: Amniocentesis
They will remove about 15mls of fluid (1 tablespoon).
What complications can happen?
- Miscarriage
- Vaginal spotting or bleeding
- Premature rupture of the membranes
- Infection in the womb
- Discomfort or cramping
- Injury to the baby
- Failure to get the fluid at the first attempt
- Failed culture
- Uncertain results of your baby’s chromosome pattern
- Removing blood-stained fluid
How soon will I recover?
Your baby’s heartbeat will be monitored for a while using the
ultrasound scan and then you will be able to go home.
You should rest for the next couple of days.
Most results of an amniocentesis are normal.
If the results show that there is a problem, your obstetrician
will discuss the options with you.
Summary
An amniocentesis is usually a safe and effective way to help
find out if there is a problem with your pregnancy.
Acknowledgements
Author: Mr Andrew Woods MBBS MRCOG FRANZCOG
Illustrations: Hannah Ravenscroft RM
This document is intended for information purposes only and
should not replace advice that your relevant health professional
would give you.
Copyright © 2008 EIDO Healthcare Limited
The operation and treatment information on this website is
produced by EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Ramsay Health
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You may not copy, print out, download or otherwise reproduce any
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The information should not replace advice that your relevant
health professional would give you.
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