Amniocentesis

From BirthWiki

General

  A procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is taken from the sac surrounding the fetus and tested.

Transabdominal puncture of the amniotic sac using a needle and syringe to remove amniotic fluid. Ultrasound is used to guide the needle during the process. 

Uses:

• detection of biochemical or genetic disorders
• detection of maternal-fetal blood incompatibility 
• determine fetal maturity in late pregnancy

Risks:

• miscarriage/spontaneous abortion
• harm to fetus
• infection

Common Abbreviation

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Amnio

More Information about the Test and its Results

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Amniocentesis at About.com
What Is an Amniocentesis? Video at About.com

Jessica anne010 18:52, 10 October 2010 (PDT)