Amniocentesis is an advanced prenatal test that is performed to check for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities in the growing foetus. Amniocentesis procedure is performed in the 15-16 weeks of pregnancy by collecting a sample of the amniotic fluid.
By evaluating the genetic health beforehand it gives hope, instils confidence, and ensures more informed and supportive parenthood journey. However, given the advanced nature and invasive nature of the surgery, there is also uncertainty about the safety of the procedure for new parents, which is understandable. In this blog, with inputs from the lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr. Neelima Mantri, we uncover the process, its benefits, and possible risk factors, if any.
Benefits of Amniocentesis:
There was a time when each precious new-born faced the shadow of potential genetic challenges that only revealed themselves later in life. These looming uncertainties remained hidden, preventing proactive measures and leading to distress and dilemma.
“Thanks to the rapid strides in advanced medical research and technology, today, one can easily assess the risk of genetic conditions in the early weeks of pregnancy. This remarkable opportunity identifies the potential genetic complications of the child to help expectant parents with insights that give them hope, instil confidence, and provide greater control over decision-making,” says best gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr. Neelima Mantri.
Now, the early weeks of pregnancy unveil an opportunity to assess and address the risks of genetic diseases. This remarkable progress not only empowers expectant parents with knowledge but also instils a sense of hope and reassurance for the health and well-being of their unborn child.
By collecting the tissue from the foetus, Amniocentesis can be used to evaluate the following chromosomal or genetic disorders in the foetus, such as:
- Down syndrome
- Patau syndrome
- Edward’s syndrome
- Cystic fibrosis
- Klinefelter syndrome
- Turner syndrome
- Tay-Sachs disease
Amniocentesis can also assess foetal lung maturity, diagnose foetal infections, and treat excessive amniotic fluid (polyhydramnios). So, does this procedure pose any complications to the foetus or pregnant women? Let us find out.
Are there any possible risks of Amniocentesis?
Pregnancy makes women more sensitive, and any complication risk matters. However, Amniocentesis, according to top Mumbai gynaecologist Dr. Neelima Mantri, is the safest prenatal test when done by experts using best practices.
“Amniocentesis is safest after 15 weeks of pregnancy, lowering the risk of complications like miscarriage, which is already at their lowest. The minor risk may increase when the procedure is performed after 15 weeks. There is a slightest risk of sensitization, especially when the baby is RhD positive and the mother is RhD negative, adds to concerns” , says Dr Mantri.
That said, the benefits of Amniocentesis far outweigh the minimal risks. This prenatal test can make a crucial difference for baby’s health by preventing genetic conditions and hence, it is considered gold standard for ensuring the baby’s genetic wellness. For more info, contact Mumbai’s renowned gynaecologist, Dr. Neelima Mantri here.
