Amniocentesis

One of the most intriguing prenatal tests is amniocentesis.

At first glance it seems to have many benefits. But when you take a closer look the test may not be the best option for you and your baby.

What's it For?

Amniocentesis is a prenatal test given to assess if an unborn baby has any genetic abnormalities. It can test for hundreds of different disorders including almost all chromosomal abnormalities. Down Syndrome is one of these. Amnios are very good at indicating these complications - they have a 99% accuracy rate.

Amniocentesis can also be used to screen for neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. In addition, it can screen for other genetic disorders. These include disorders more common in certain ethnic groups such as Tay-Sachs disease and sickle cell anemia.

You won't be able to discover all birth defects from an amnio. Congenital abnormalities (those present at birth) such as a cleft palate or club foot are not detected by the test. An abnormal test may give indication that these should be watched for.

How is it Done?

Amniocentesis is a big procedure. You should plan to have the entire day to rest. You'll lie on a table and an ultrasound will be done to assess your baby's position. The technician or doctor performing the procedure will be guided by ultrasound.

A thin needle is inserted through your abdomen and down through the uterus, amniotic sac, and into the amniotic fluid. The amnio is so named because the needle draws a small sample of fluid up to be collected and analyzed.

The sample is sent to a laboratory where it has to be cultured for 2-3 weeks.

What are the Side Effects of an Amnio?

Some of the side effects include cramping and bleeding. Some women may experience severe cramping. If you have an amniocentesis done make sure you can relax and lie low after the procedure. Sometimes amniotic fluid may leak.

There is a risk of miscarriage after amniocentesis. This risk is generally thought to be between 1-3%, which is significantly higher than if no amnio is performed. The March of Dimes reports the risk to be 1 in 200 babies lost after the procedure.

There are major emotional side effects for most women after an amnio. The procedure is meant to bring peace of mind. However many women find that they feel anxious and irritable while they wait on the test results.

Oftentimes the woman or couple finds that they must make a choice they never wished to. If a problem is discovered with the baby you must decide if you want to abort or not. There is pain involved on all sides of this horrible choice. Some women have an amnio when they are very far along in pregnancy and the choice to terminate is not an option. This can cause complications on its own.

If you find yourself in a situation where you feel an amniocentesis is necessary find someone you trust and can talk to. Make sure that you can express your nervousness as you wait for the test results. Continue to take good care of yourself physically.

If you do find that there is a problem with your baby you may face a heart-stopping choice. Again, seek the counsel of friends who will not judge you. Do not let anyone pressure you one way or the other. If you feel like someone is pressuring you seek support elsewhere.

When Should Amniocentesis Be Done?

A much less invasive test called the Triple Screen is now available to all women early in the second trimester. This test gives a good indication if an amnio should be performed.

Even the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology is recommending that the Triple Screen be done before amniocentesis. All women over age 35 used to be routinely offered amniocentesis, even though most would come back just fine. The Triple Screen offers a less direct to see if the more invasive test may be warranted.

Women who have a family history of genetic or chromosomal abnormality, or who have given birth to a child with an abnormality may wish to review the pros and cons of amniocentesis in depth with their midwife or doctor.

Personal risk is always the best way to decide if you should have an invasive procedure such as amniocentesis performed. Your midwife or doctor will be able to help your weigh any risks versus benefits. If you feel like your care provider's opinions are biased one way or the other you're always entitled to ask for a second opinion.

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