Amniocentesis is a modern diagnostic method that helps to obtain important information about the health of the unborn child during pregnancy. The procedure involves taking a small amount of amniotic fluid for analysis. This allows you to identify genetic and chromosomal abnormalities, as well as assess some indicators of the fetus's condition.

When is amniocentesis recommended?

Amniocentesis is performed at 16-20 weeks of pregnancy on the referral of a geneticist if:

• There is a high risk of chromosomal abnormalities (based on the results of prenatal screening).
• Congenital malformations or ultrasound markers of chromosomal abnormalities are detected.
• There have been cases of genetic diseases in the family.
• One or both parents are carriers of genetic mutations.
• Pregnancy occurred after ART (assisted reproductive technology) with mosaic embryo transfer.
• The woman wants to get additional information about the fetus' condition.

Contraindications to the procedure:

Amniocentesis is not performed if:

• The gestational age is less than 16 or more than 22 weeks.
• There are acute infectious diseases or inflammation of the skin on the abdomen.
• Blood clotting disorders are detected.
• There is placental abruption, low water or amniotic fluid leakage.
• The pregnant woman has not given written consent to the procedure.

It is important to discuss all the risks and benefits of the procedure with your doctor.

How is the procedure performed?

Amniocentesis is performed on an outpatient basis by an obstetrician-gynecologist specializing in medical genetics.

1. Control ultrasound - the doctor determines the position of the fetus, placenta and the optimal place for fluid sampling.
2. Fluid sampling - under the control of ultrasound, the doctor inserts a thin needle through the anterior abdominal wall and takes about 20 ml of amniotic fluid.
3. The procedure lasts several minutes and does not require anesthesia, as it feels similar to taking blood from a vein.
4. After amniocentesis, the pregnant woman is under observation for 1 hour.

What diseases can be diagnosed?

Amniocentesis can detect a number of genetic and chromosomal disorders, including trisomies 13, 18, and 21, as well as other changes that can affect the health and development of the child. In addition, amniotic fluid testing can detect infectious diseases of the fetus and determine its Rh factor, which is especially important for Rh-negative mothers to prevent Rh conflict.

Why is it important to have a discussion before the procedure?

A detailed consultation with your doctor is necessary before amniocentesis. You will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and possible consequences of the procedure. It is important to understand that although most genetic and chromosomal abnormalities cannot be treated, timely detection allows parents to better prepare for caring for a child with special needs or make other important decisions.

Making an appointment for the procedure

• First, you need to consult a geneticist.
• The doctor will prescribe the necessary tests and explain all the details of the procedure.
• On the day of the amniocentesis, you must have your passport and pregnancy exchange card with you.

The cost of the test is paid additionally according to the price list.

Recommendations before the procedure

• You do not need to be hungry, but the last meal should be no later than 2 hours before the procedure.
• Take a hygienic shower at home.
• If you wish, you can take your favorite bathrobe and slippers.
• It is advisable to minimize the use of cosmetics, perfumes and jewelry.
• Take your passport and exchange card with you.
• Plan your day so that you can stay in the clinic for up to 4 hours after the procedure.

Conclusion

Amniocentesis is an important tool in the hands of modern medicine, allowing you to provide additional confidence in the health of your child before birth. Our clinic provides this service using advanced technologies and under the supervision of experienced professionals, guaranteeing a high level of safety and reliability of the results. We are always ready to provide full information and support at every stage of the procedure, help you make an informed decision and ensure maximum comfort during the examination.