Amniocentesis, a Procedure Used to Detect Certain

Amniocentesis, a procedure used to detect certain abnormalities in a fetus, is a controversial procedure at best. Although it is used to detect problems with the chromosomes, genetic disorders and other issues that can't be detected through a regular ultrasound, women are not always quick to agree to this procedure. The American Pregnancy Association reports that there are some risks to undergoing the procedure. Although it is necessary, it is important to carefully weigh the pros and cons of having the procedure performed before deciding whether or not it is right for your family (2011).

Personally, it would be difficult to make the decision as to whether or not amniocentesis is right for my family. We have a good, open and honest relationship with our doctor and I feel that he would never attempt a procedure like that if he was not absolutely certain that things would be okay. I would like to think that if he advised a certain procedure, I would trust him and his judgment with no reservation. It is also important to consider the risks, though.

Things are different for a woman over 35. Women who are over the age of 35 have a higher risk of miscarrying. They also have a higher risk for birth defects, including genetic diseases like Down's Syndrome. Family Doctor recommends amniocentesis for the purposes of prenatal diagnoses in cases such as these, because having knowledge about the condition of your child before it is born may make it possible to take steps in treatment that can potentially save the life of a mother or her baby.

An amniocentesis is especially important for those women who have had a history of genetic disorders or birth defects. In the event that me or my partner had such a history, the question as to whether or not an amniocentesis should be performed would not be a question at all. While there is a risk, the American Pregnancy Association says that the risk of complication is about 1 in 200. While this is a significant risk, those facilities that perform the procedures on a regular basis can have odds as slim as 1 in 400. I would find one of those clinics.