Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis

This is withdrawing of fluid from the amniotic sac through abdominal wall using a transabdominal needle. With the aid of ultrasound the location of the placenta can be seen. It is performed between 16 to 18 week to diagnosis fetal abnormality. It may be performed later for ;

1.           Polyhydramnios

2.           Intrauterine transfusion

Dangers

1.           Abortion in early pregnancy.

2.           Abruptio Placenta – APH.

3.           Damage to fetal vessels

4.           Trauma to the fetus.

5.           Rhesus isoimmunisation may be induced

6.           Fetal Death.