Does amniocentesis have any impact on the fetus?

Jul 16, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

In two days, I have another prenatal checkup where I will undergo amniocentesis. I would like to ask whether amniocentesis will have any impact on the fetus?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Amniocentesis has certain effects on the fetus, but the associated risks are relatively low. Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic technique mainly used to detect whether the fetus has chromosomal abnormalities, genetic diseases, or fetal malformations. During the procedure, there may be potential risks to the fetus, such as infection, miscarriage, leakage of amniotic fluid, fetal injury, or even stillbirth. The probability of these risks occurring is relatively low. Doctors will take strict disinfection and protective measures during amniocentesis to reduce the risk of infection. In addition, amniocentesis is highly accurate and is one of the important methods of prenatal diagnosis. Doctors usually recommend amniocentesis for pregnant women of advanced maternal age, those who fail non-invasive DNA testing, or those with other high-risk factors, to further confirm the health status of the fetus. Pregnant women should fully understand the related risks before undergoing amniocentesis and make decisions under the guidance of a doctor. At the same time, after amniocentesis, pregnant women should also pay attention to rest and monitor their physical condition, seeking timely medical attention if any abnormalities occur.