Women over the age of 40 years (Victorian women aged 37 years and over are routinely offered this test).Pregnant women who may be candidates for amniocentesis include: Genetic disorders – amniotic fluid samples can be DNA tested to identify a range of genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis and fragile X syndrome.Īs a woman grows older, the risk of having a child with Down syndrome begins to increase significantly – from about one in 2,000 (at age 20 years) to one in 100 (at 40 years).Neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.Problems detected by amniocentesisĪmniocentesis can detect a number of chromosomal and other birth abnormalities in a developing fetus. Discuss with your doctor or obstetrician whether amniocentesis is right for you. Amniotic fluid samples can also be DNA tested to identify a range of genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis and fragile X syndrome.Īmniocentesis is only performed on women thought to be at higher risk of delivering a child with a birth defect. The fluid is examined to obtain information about the baby – including its sex – and to detect physical abnormalities such as Down syndrome or spina bifida. A thin needle is used to withdraw a small amount of this fluid from the sac surrounding the fetus.
By around this time, the developing baby is suspended in about 130ml of amniotic fluid, which the baby constantly swallows and excretes. In most cases, the results are normal.Īmniocentesis is performed between 16 and 20 weeks into the pregnancy. The test checks for fetal abnormalities (birth defects) such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis or spina bifida. Amniocentesis is a prenatal procedure that your doctor may recommend you have during pregnancy.
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