Download our pregnancy factsheet and find out more about amniocentesis, a medical procedure performed to sample the fluid around the baby in the uterus (womb).
This fluid is collected using a needle inserted through the pregnant womans abdomen. The most common reason for having an amniocentesis is to test for Down syndrome or other chromosomes (or genetic) conditions. This test is often offered because of a suspected chromosome or genetic condition found on ultrasound, or by a prior screening test.
Sometimes a woman may have an amniocentesis to test the baby for other conditions such as an inherited disease, blood group, or an infection.
Dr Chettle will fully explain the reasons for offering an amniocentesis to you and obtain your written consent before performing the procedure.
