Regret doing amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is one of the prenatal examination items, which can be used to diagnose whether the baby has any disease, deformity, and the developmental status of the fetus. However, because it carries certain risks, not everyone should undergo amniocentesis. So, when is the best time for amniocentesis? Does amniocentesis hurt during pregnancy? What are some common problems with amniocentesis?

What is amniocentesis?

1. Definition

Amniocentesis, also known as "amniocentesis", is a test performed before a pregnant woman gives birth. This test is usually performed between the 14th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. The specific procedure of the puncture is as follows: relying on the indications of ultrasound, a thin and long puncture needle is used to pass through the pregnant mother's belly and endometrium, and finally reach the amniotic fluid of the pregnant woman, and appropriate amniotic fluid is extracted. After that, relevant analysis and specimen collection are performed to determine whether the fetus is growing and developing normally in the belly. This test has a long history, so it is relatively accurate and safe to a certain extent.

2. Efficacy

Amniocentesis can detect whether the fetus has chromosomal abnormalities, thereby increasing the proportion of healthy babies born. In addition, this test can also screen out Down syndrome. By analyzing the amniotic fluid of pregnant women, some diseases related to genetic genes, such as hepatitis B, marine qi and blood deficiency, and hemophilia, can also be identified.

3. Available age

Because amniocentesis is risky, doctors will not require every pregnant woman to do it unless it is necessary. Pregnant women can decide whether to do amniocentesis based on their own health conditions.

However, this test is necessary for pregnant women over 35 years old. In addition, even if the woman is not an older pregnant woman, if other tests show abnormalities, such as if the Down syndrome screening shows that the woman is at high risk, amniocentesis should be done to further clarify the situation.