When should amniocentesis be performed?

Amniocentesis is an important test that your doctor may request in pregnancy follow-up. The amniotic sac is the water-filled sac in the uterus in which the baby swims. The process of taking some of this fluid for the purpose of genetic testing is defined as amniocentesis.

Usually, if the expectant mother or father or their family has a genetic disease that can be transmitted to the baby or if a child has previously had a genetic disease. Amniocentesis, which should definitely be performed if it is present; It is also applied in cases where there is a risk of the unborn baby having a genetic disease as a result of ultrasound, blood or nuchal translucency scanning.

Amniocentesis is the process of entering the fluid in which the unborn baby swims into the uterus through the abdominal wall with a thin needle. is carried out. Before this procedure, the position of the baby and the placenta is evaluated with the help of ultrasound and the abdominal wall is sterilized with an antiseptic substance. Approximately 15 milliliters of this fluid contains cells belonging to the baby. In this way, the baby's cells and genes can be examined in a laboratory environment.

During the amniocentesis procedure performed after the 15th week of pregnancy, in some cases, sufficient fluid cannot be taken. In such cases, repeat intervention is needed. Many expectant mothers experience anxiety before the amniocentesis procedure. It is considered normal for some expectant mothers to feel tension and sensitivity in the uterus after this 2-minute procedure. After the amniocentesis procedure, experts; It recommends that expectant mothers rest, do not lift heavy objects, and avoid strenuous exercise. It is necessary to consult a doctor if symptoms such as a feeling of tension in the uterus, fever or unusual vaginal discharge last longer than 24 hours after the procedure.

Is the Amniocentesis Procedure Risky?

As mentioned before, the Amniocentesis procedure is It is a test that can examine whether the baby has a chromosomal or genetic disease. As with every interventional intervention, there are some risks during this application. As a result of research, 1% of women who have amniocentesis have a risk of miscarriage. However, amniocentesis There is no evidence as to whether the z procedure poses any risk factor to the baby in the womb.

All questions before amniocentesis should be asked to the doctor who monitors the pregnancy. The rate of the test providing a definitive result must be evaluated. At the same time, how to evaluate the options when it is concluded that the baby has a genetic disease is among the important issues that should be considered.

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