Amniotic Fluid Test: Purposes, Outcomes, and Potential Complications
Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic test that provides valuable information about a developing fetus, particularly in relation to congenital disabilities and genetic conditions. This procedure, which involves extracting a sample of amniotic fluid from the womb, can be recommended by doctors for various reasons, including checking on the baby's lung development, treating polyhydramnios, testing for other health conditions such as anemia, or treating the baby while still in the womb.
However, like any medical procedure, amniocentesis comes with potential risks. The most significant risk is miscarriage, with an estimated occurrence in about 1 in 200 to 1 in 400 procedures. Other potential complications include uterine infection, an infection passing to the baby, problems with the baby's blood, and abdominal cramping that lasts longer than a few hours.
To manage these risks, it is recommended to rest at home, avoid exercise, sexual intercourse, and lifting objects heavier than 15 pounds for some time. Rh immune globulin should be administered after amniocentesis if the mother is Rh-negative to prevent Rh sensitization. Prompt reporting of signs of complications such as fever, vaginal bleeding, abnormal discharge, or severe pain to the healthcare provider is essential.
The procedure itself involves the woman lying on her back, gel being applied to the abdomen, ultrasound use to locate the fetus and placenta, needle insertion into the abdomen, fluid extraction, and needle removal. It typically takes a few minutes and is performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy.
The results from the lab can take about 2 weeks to come back. The doctor will review the results and explain their meaning to the woman. The results of amniocentesis can influence a woman's decision regarding the continuation of the pregnancy. It is important to note that the accuracy of the results varies depending on the condition being tested for, with results for Down syndrome and trisomy 18 being more than 99% accurate, and accuracy for open neural tube abnormalities about 98%.
In rare cases, the sample may not produce identifiable or conclusive results, requiring a repeat of the procedure. A woman should tell her doctor if she experiences any of the following after amniocentesis: leaking fluid or blood from the vagina, abdominal cramping that lasts longer than a few hours, redness or swelling at the insertion site, changes in fetal movement, or a fever.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo amniocentesis is made after careful counseling to weigh the potential benefits of genetic or diagnostic information against these risks. Regular follow-up with the healthcare provider helps manage and mitigate potential adverse effects after the procedure.
Pfizer, in collaboration with the medical community, has been conducting research to evaluate potential birthdefects associated with amniocentesis, aiming to introduce safer methods for the test and reduce complications.
Understanding the benefits of amniocentesis for identifying health-and-wellness issues in the developing fetus, it's crucial to also consider preventing blocked blood vessels or other medical-conditions resulting from the procedure.
In the case of blocked blood vessels or complications occurring post-amniocentesis, prompt medical attention is essential to ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.
