Amniocentesis

It is a procedure in which a small amount of the amniotic fluid (about 20 cc) surrounding the fetus is withdrawn for testing for chromosomes and genetic disease.

This is done by inserting a very fine needle through the mother’s abdomen into the uterus under ultrasound

guidance.

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and takes only a few minutes.

Most women do not experience any pain and a local anesthetic is not necessary. The needle may cause some pain when it penetrates the uterus, but the pain should not last long and should not hurt more than an injection into any other part of the body.

After the fluid has been withdrawn, the removal of the needle will cause no further discomfort. The fluid is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.