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Amniocentesis Essay

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Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis is a procedure in which a needle is used to remove a sample of the fluid that surrounds a baby in the uterus (amniotic fluid). When studied under a microscope, this fluid can provide lot of information about the baby.

You may have this procedure if your health care provider wants to:

Check for complications with the pregnancy.

Check for a genetic problem.

Check for infection.

See if the baby's lungs have matured.

Understand the risks and benefits of an early delivery.

LET YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER KNOW ABOUT:

Any complications you have had with your pregnancy, such as bleeding or contractions.

Any allergies you have.

All medicines you are taking, including vitamins, herbs, …show more content…

You may want to arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure.

PROCEDURE

An ultrasound will be done to determine the baby's position and the best place to insert the needle.

A solution to help prevent infection will be spread on the abdomen.

A numbing medicine may be injected into the skin.

A longer needle will be inserted through the skin into the uterus. An ultrasound probe may be used help your health care provider determine where to insert the needle.

Amniotic fluid will be removed into a syringe.

The needle will be removed and sent to the lab for evaluation.

The part of the skin where the needle was inserted will be covered with a bandage (dressing).

The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.
AFTER THE PROCEDURE

You will be asked to rest for 1 to 2 hours. During this time, health care providers will observe your baby on a monitor to make sure there are no problems.

Women who do not have a substance called the Rh factor in their blood may need an Rho (D) immune globulin shot after the procedure. Ask your health care provider if you need to have this

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