Why amniocentesis is offered

Amniocentesis is offered to pregnant women at risk of having a baby with a serious genetic disorder. It will diagnose any problems at an early stage.

Amniocentesis isn't routinely offered to all women during pregnancy. It's offered if your test results or medical or family history suggest you have an increased chance of having a baby with a genetic disorder.

You don't have to have the test if it's offered it's up to you to decide whether you want it.

What conditions can amniocentesis detect?

Amniocentesis can be used to diagnose a number of serious genetic disorders, including:

• Trisomy 21 a condition that typically causes some level of learning disability and a characteristic range of physical features
• Edward's syndrome and Patau's syndromeconditions that can result in miscarriage , stillbirth or (in babies that survive) severe physical problems and learning disabilities
• cystic fibrosis a condition in which the lungs and digestive system become clogged with thick, sticky mucus
• muscular dystrophy a condition that causes progressive muscle weakness and disability
• sickle cell anaemia where the red blood cells develop abnormally and are unable to carry oxygen around the body properly
• thalassaemia a condition that affects the red blood cells, which can cause anaemia, restricted growth and organ damage

Amniocentesis can also test for neural tube defects. The most common neural tube defect is spina bifida , which can cause learning difficulties and paralysis (weakness) of the lower limbs.

Deciding whether to have amniocentesis

If you're offered CVS, ask your doctor or midwife what the procedure involves and what the risks and benefits are before deciding whether to have it.

You may also find it helpful to contact a support group, such as Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) . ARC is a charity that offers information, advice and support on all issues related to screening during pregnancy.

Reasons to have amniocentesis

The test will usually tell you whether your baby will be born with any of the genetic conditions that were tested for.

If no problem is found, it may be reassuring. A result showing that a genetic condition was detected will give you plenty of time to decide how you want to proceed with your pregnancy. Read about the results of amniocentesis for more information.

Reasons not to have amniocentesis

There is a 1% chance you could have a miscarriage after the procedure. You may feel this risk outweighs the potential benefits of the test. .

Some women decide theywould ratherfind out when their baby is born.