Amniocentesis

What is an amniocentesis?

Amniocentesis is a test in which amniotic fluid from the uterus removed and later analyzed, it contains fetal cells.

This analysis is diagnosed or ruled out genetic problems of the baby (Down syndrome), neural tube defects (hydrocephalus, spina bifida), amnion infection, other complications and sex of the baby. With amniocentesis NOT to try any of these alterations.

Who is indicated amniocentesis?

- That the pregnancy is 35 years or more.

- Be suspicious of possible problems due to selective tests conducted previously

- That we have had these changes in previous pregnancies

- Family history of genetic alterations (in this case would be advisable to seek genetic counseling before becoming pregnant, to determine the likelihood that our son was born with a genetic defect).

When we will have an amniocentesis?

Usually made between 15 to 18 weeks, reaching even to 11 or 12. You should not worry you to extract a small amount of amniotic fluid for the fetus as quickly replaces.

What are the risks of amniocentesis?

Like any invasive procedure there are risks, which are:

- Abortion: about 1 in 200 to 400 women aborted (higher risk if done in the first quarter)

- Uterine infection: 1 in 1000

How is an amniocentesis?

First we make an ECO to accurately pinpoint the location of the fetus, placenta, and therefore the best place for testing. The doctor, after local anesthesia, a needle inserted using the ECO and you will have the liquid. After this, there will be an ECO again to make sure the normality of the baby's heartbeat.

What I have normal discomforts during amniocentesis?

"None

-Burning after local anesthesia

-Slight pain or cramp after inserting the needle

When will the results?

In two weeks. This is important for the decision to be taken depending on the outcome.

For levels of alpha fetoprotein (AFP) is not necessary to wait that long, so if they are too high, would suspect neural tube defect, and otherwise you are too low, Down syndrome.

Do I have alternatives to amniocentesis?

- ECO

- Maternal Serum Screening (quadruple test detects levels of AFP and others in the mother's blood)

These procedures are noninvasive, and therefore do not have the risks of abortion and others. Diagnosed from 65 - 85% of the defects.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

- 95% of normal amniocentesis

- The accuracy of the test is 90% and 2 in 100 children with congenital disorders have normal amniocentesis

- The treatment of some of these defects will utero and after birth, but can not be processed but will be valuable information to know what happens to our decision making and for special medical arrangements at the time of delivery.

- The main risk for Down syndrome is the age of the mother, and not having a family member with Down syndrome.