Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is a test offered to some women after 14 weeks of pregnancy to check for any possible genetic disorders.

You will be offered amniocentesis in the following cases:

If you are at increased risk of having a baby with Down's syndrome
If you have had a positive alpha-fetoprotein test (AFP) result
If your ultrasound indicates that your baby may have a genetic abnormality

Amniocentesis is performed by passing a fine needle through the abdomen and into the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.

A small sample of the fluid is taken and sent off for analysis to check for genetic disorders.

You will get your results in up to three weeks. The procedure has a half to one per cent risk of miscarriage.

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