Amniocentesis is an important way for you and your doctors to find out how your baby is developing while inside the womb.
The results of an amniocentesis can also tell you whether there is a chance that the baby could develop certain genetic abnormalities.
Amniocentesis is carried out to detect the risk of the baby developing conditions such as Downs syndrome, Edwards syndrome, cystic fibrosis,and musculoskeletal disorders like Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spina bifida. The amniocentesis test is usually recommended for all pregnant women who are over 35 as, after this age, the risk of the baby being born with a genetic abnormality increases.
During an amniocentesis, a small sample of the amniotic fluid (which is the fluid surrounding the foetus in the womb) is taken and then tested in a laboratory. The amniotic fluid contains cells which have been shed by the foetus. These cells can be analysed to provide information about the health and wellbeing of your baby.
April 2011 | 
Amniocentesis Introduction
