Amniocentesis ( also known as as Amniotic Fluid Test or AFT ) is a prenatal diagnostic process in which a small amount of the amniotic fluid ( also known as pregnant woman’s water, is a protective liquid contained by the amniotic sac of a pregnant female ) bathing the baby in the mother’s womb is removed by putting a fine needle through the mother’s abdomen.
What is amniocentesis procedure used for and when should it be done ?
Amniocentesis is chiefly used to identify if a baby has a chromosomal disorder such as Down syndrome. The best time to undergo amniocentesis is after the first 15 weeks of pregnancy. Anesthesia is not usually needed. Prior to the procedure, a gel is to be spread all over the abdomen. You will then be scanned to check the fetal positions of both the baby and the placenta. Abdominal skin is then cleaned and the needle will be inserted into the representative area. With the aid of an ultrasound probe for accurate guidance and ensuring adequate distance from the baby, the needle is pushed into your skin, through your abdomen and womb. Usually the doctor doing the procedure should avoid the placenta. Sometimes the needle may have to pass through the placenta. A small sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby is removed by a syringe. This fluid is amber/yellow colour but may be blood stained as well. The needle is then withdrawn and the baby is checked on ultrasonography. The amniotic fluid with the baby’s cells is sent to the laboratory for clinical and histopathologic testing.
What are the risks associated with amniocentesis procedure ?
It may be painful at times. Very rarely, some women who undergo the amniocentesis procedure miscarry due to it. Amniocentesis is generally offered to women who have higher chances of having a baby with a chromosomal disorder. It is not typically offered on a routine basis.
How to find gynecologists for amniocentesis procedure ?
Now you can find gynecologists for amniocentesis procedure from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple gynecologists, get approximate cost of amniocentesis procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a gynecologist for amniocentesis procedure .
Find and choose a gynecologist for amniocentesis procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
