Amniocentesis is among the tests performed during the prenatal pregnancy period. During the procedure, a sample is taken from the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus in the womb. This fluid contains live fetal cells as well as other components that provide important information about the baby's health.
When is Amniocentesis Done?
The condition of the fetus before the Amniocentesis test is performed. To examine the mother's womb, the mother's womb is examined with the help of ultrasound. If no abnormality is seen as a result of the ultrasound, this test may not be requested. Amniotic fluid sample is used to diagnose genetic diseases and chromosomal anomalies such as Down syndrome. The test is usually performed between the 15th and 18th weeks of pregnancy.
What Diseases Can Amniocentesis Diagnose?
This procedure is used to diagnose some genetic diseases that may occur in the fetus. These diseases include:
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Down syndrome
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Tay-Sachs syndrome
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Neural tube defects (inappropriate development of the brain and spine)
If there is a family history of diseases such as muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia, testing by taking a sample of amniotic fluid is recommended.
How is Amniocentesis Done?
The procedure is performed with the help of ultrasound. First of all, the location and position of the baby is determined using ultrasound. The mother's abdominal area is then cleaned for preparation. With the help of ultrasound, a thin and hollow needle is injected from the abdominal area into the uterus. Local anesthesia can be applied to the area where the injection will be applied so that the expectant mother feels relaxed and does not feel pain. A sample of amniotic fluid is collected using a needle. The fluid is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
What are the Risks of Amniocentesis?
There is an approximately 0.5% risk of miscarriage after the procedure. Rh synthesis may occur, as in the chorionic villus sampling test. In cases where the mother is Rh negative and the fetus is Rh positive, blood transfer from the fetus to the mother may cause some problems. As with any other procedure, there is a risk of infection for the mother and baby. Even though the risks associated with the procedure are few and low, the doctor informs the patient about all risks.
What to Consider After Amniocentesis What Should I Do?
Discomfort may be felt for a while after the procedure. Doctors recommend expectant mothers to rest throughout the day. In this way, the risks arising from the amniocentesis procedure are minimized. Expectant mothers should avoid heavy lifting and excessive movement for a few days.
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