(1) 800-848-8593Amniocentesis is a medical investigation used for diagnostic screening or as a means of sample collection for a prenatal paternity test. The test can be performed between the 15-20th week of pregnancy (slightly after CVS, chorionic villus sampling) and involves the insertion of a needle through the abdomen in order to withdraw a sample of amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the fluid which surrounds the unborn baby and is rich in fetal DNA. Amniotic fluid is an amber colored liquid. The issue with the procedure is that it can lead or miscarriage or to the leakage of amniotic fluid. If the level of amniotic fluid fall to low, this can be very dangerous for the baby. Because of these dangers, non invasive prenatal paternity tests are today available that do not require going anywhere near the uterus or baby as happens in amniocentesis..
There are several reasons why people opt for amniocentesis as a means of investigation. Through the amniotic fluid doctors are able to determine whether the baby is suffering from inherited and genetic conditions such as ‘Spina Bifida’ or ‘Down’s Syndrome’. Also whether organs have matured to the correct size and if there is any illness present.
Although it may sound like a good idea to check whether the unborn baby is healthy or not, amniocentesis is a risky procedure with serious repercussions. Careful consideration is necessary when deciding on whether to undertake the procedure. Tests on the market today, such as our prenatal paternity test do not require such an invasive method and results are still obtained. Therefore it may be a better idea to opt for the less risky option.
Results of the tests may come as a shock to the parent or parents, so psychological and emotional preparation is recommended throughout the process. Contact your local healthcare provider to get more information about both procedures or have our customer care representative give you a call and answer any queries> click here.
