Amniocentesis (Amniocentesis)

Amniocentesis is a procedure in which amniotic fluid is aspirated (collected) from the uterus of a pregnant woman. Fluid is collected by puncturing the amniotic sac through the anterior abdominal wall using a special needle.

Because amniotic fluid contains cells from the fetus, mainly from the surface of the fetus's skin, its examination allows for chromosome analysis to identify possible genetic abnormalities of the fetus (for example, Down syndrome). Also, based on the composition of the fluid, metabolic disorders and some other fetal diseases, such as spina bifida, can be diagnosed.

Although the risk of miscarriage associated with the procedure is small, it is greatly reduced when amniocentesis is performed by an experienced physician. Amniocentesis is not required if the parents agree to terminate the pregnancy if serious fetal abnormalities are detected.

Amniocentesis (amniotic fluid aspiration) is a procedure in which fluid (amniotic liquid) containing the embryo in the uterus is aspirated through the abdominal wall. As the amniotic liquid contains cells from the surface of the embryo’s skin, it is possible to study the chromosomes so that if there are any abnormalities in their composition, it can be prenatally diagnosed. Diseases such as Down syndrome can also be diagnosed prenatally based on biochemical analysis of cells or amniotic liquid (see alpha fetoprotein). Despite the risk of pregnancy termination during amniocentesis, if performed by a qualified specialist, this risk is significantly reduced. The need for amniocentesis is eliminated if parents agree to terminate the pregnancy in case of serious developmental defects in the fetus.

Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic method that allows you to study the chromosome set of the embryo and identify possible genetic disorders. This method is one of the most accurate and effective ways to determine genetic abnormalities in the fetus, which helps prevent the birth of a child with hereditary diseases.

Amniocentesis is performed by puncturing a pregnant woman's abdominal wall and removing amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells. These cells are then examined under a microscope to determine their chromosomal composition. If any abnormalities are detected, the parents may decide to terminate the pregnancy.

Although amniocentesis can lead to pregnancy loss, trained professionals can minimize this risk. In addition, if the parents do not object to terminating the pregnancy if serious genetic disorders are detected, amniocentesis may not be necessary.