What is the risk involved with amniocentesis?
The procedure of amniocentesis involves only slight risk and in very rare cases it can cause miscarriage. Miscarriage can happen if the test is done prior to 15th week of pregnancy. In rare cases, amniotic fluid can leak into your vagina for which your doctor would suggest alternative remedy. In extremely rare cases the needle can cause injury to the moving fetus. Similarly in very rare cases this test can pass on the infection from the mother to the baby.
The Process of Testing :
Before actually doing amniocentesis your doctor or gynecologist will make sure that conducting such test is beneficial for the fetus as well as the mother. She will use ultrasound scan to find out the exact location of your baby inside the uterus. You will have to lie on your back in relaxed state. Your doctor will apply gel like substance on your abdomen to check the baby’s position. She will then clean the upper layer of the abdomen using antiseptic solution.
Subsequently a thin long needle is inserted into the uterus through the abdominal wall. An ounce (or even lesser) of amniotic fluid is collected through the syringe and the needle will gently be removed. The entire procedure can take anywhere from 20-30 minutes. Some women may get slight cramps in the lower abdomen during or after the testing. Your doctor will repeat the ultrasound scan to check the baby’s condition.