Ensuring fetal health is a top priority for expectant mothers, and prenatal screening tests play a crucial role in monitoring the baby’s well-being. One such test is amniocentesis, a diagnostic procedure used to detect potential genetic disorders in the fetus. Here’s what you need to know about this test.

What Is Amniocentesis?

Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic test typically performed during the second trimester (between weeks 15 and 21 of pregnancy). Since it is an invasive procedure, it is only recommended in specific cases, such as:

• Family history of hereditary diseases.
• When one partner is a carrier of a chromosomal disorder.
• Suspected fetal infection.
• Previous children diagnosed with Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities.

The test analyzes amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells, providing valuable insights into the baby’s health, including:

✅ Diagnosis of Fetal Infections – Detects infections that may impact fetal development.
✅ Fetal Lung Maturity – Assesses whether the baby’s lungs are developed enough for birth.
✅ Genetic Testing – Identifies chromosomal or genetic disorders that could cause intellectual or physical disabilities.

How Is Amniocentesis Performed?

The procedure follows several carefully controlled steps:

1. An ultrasound is conducted to locate the fetus and determine the safest insertion point.
2. A thin needle is carefully inserted through the abdominal wall, the uterine wall, and into the amniotic sac.
3. A small sample of amniotic fluid containing fetal cells is collected for analysis.

The entire process typically takes 20-30 minutes and does not require anesthesia.

Risks of Amniocentesis

Although amniocentesis is generally safe, it does carry some risks:

• Miscarriage: The most significant risk, occurring in approximately 1 in 500 cases, due to the invasive nature of the procedure.
• Fetal Puncture: In rare cases, the fetus may move suddenly, leading to a minor puncture. However, serious injuries are extremely uncommon.
• Amniotic Fluid Leakage: Occasionally, fluid may leak from the uterus, but this usually resolves without medical intervention.

Due to its invasive nature, amniocentesis is not routinely performed for all pregnancies but is recommended only in cases with specific medical indications.

Learn More

If you have concerns about fetal health or are considering amniocentesis, contact Sakalli IVF today. Our experienced team is here to provide expert guidance and support, helping you make informed decisions about your pregnancy journey.