What you can expect

Amniocentesis is usually done in an outpatient obstetric facility.

During the procedure

First, your health care provider will use ultrasound to determine the baby's exact location in your uterus. You'll lie on your back on an exam table and expose your abdomen. Your health care provider will apply a gel to your abdomen and then use a small device known as an ultrasound transducer to show your baby's position on a monitor.

Next, your health care provider will clean your abdomen with an antiseptic. Generally, anesthetic isn't used. Most women report only mild discomfort during the procedure.

Guided by ultrasound, your health care provider will insert a thin, hollow needle through your abdominal wall and into the uterus. A small amount of amniotic fluid will be withdrawn into a syringe, and the needle will be removed. The specific amount of amniotic fluid withdrawn depends on the number of weeks the pregnancy has progressed.

You'll need to lie still while the needle is inserted and the amniotic fluid is withdrawn. You might notice a stinging sensation when the needle enters your skin, and you might feel cramping when the needle enters your uterus.

After the procedure

After amniocentesis, your health care provider will continue using the ultrasound to monitor your baby's heart rate. You might experience cramping or mild pelvic discomfort after an amniocentesis.

You can resume your normal activity level after the procedure. However, you might consider avoiding strenuous exercise and sexual activity for a day or two.

Meanwhile, the sample of amniotic fluid will be analyzed in a lab. Some results might be available within a few days. Other results might take up to four weeks.

Contact your health care provider if you have:

• Loss of or vaginal bleeding or loss of amniotic fluid through the vagina
• Severe uterine cramping that lasts more than a few hours
• Fever
• Redness and inflammation where the needle was inserted
• Unusual fetal activity or a lack of fetal movement