An amniocentesis (also commonly referred to as "amnio") is a common prenatal test. During the procedure, an ultrasound device is used to
determine the baby's position, and then a long hollow needle is introduced to withdraw amniotic fluid from the around the fetus. (The baby is
not touched.) The particles of the baby's sloughed-off skin cells floating in the water are then tested in a lab for fetal abnormalities. Results are usually back in 8-10
days.
Amniocentesis identifies fetal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome (Trisomy 13), fetal infections, skeletal and blood diseases, and is
also the most accurate way to determine the baby's gender. This test is performed on "older" mothers (typically those over 35 years of age) more often than younger ones
because the risk of fetal abnormalities increases with age. The test itself, however, can cause miscarriage in about 0.5 to three percent of cases.
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