Amniocentesis – what happens next?

Posted on 12 February 2013

Here’s what to expect once you’ve had an amniocentesis test.

As an older mom I have had to have an amniocentesis and the results seem to be taking forever. How long must we wait?
Your feeling of impatience is understandable. Amnio test results can take anything from one to five weeks and many couples agree that waiting for the test results is the most agonising part.

This is when the ‘what if’ scenario is played and replayed, and you will be deciding what to do if your baby tests positive for Down syndrome, for example. I recommend that you turn to family and friends, as well as your obstetrician and family doctor for support and advice.

What will the test show?
Your baby is floating in amniotic fluid, which is much like water, and in this water are skin cells that shed during growth and other substances, such as alpha-foetoprotein (AFP) which give us a picture of a baby’s health before birth.

The test will check your baby’s chromosomes, for example, in Down syndrome there is a tell-tale extra chromosome. And by looking at AFP, some cases of spina bifida and other genetic syndromes that could be carried by the parents can be detected. It can also detect cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, haemophilia and foetal anaemia.

What if the result is positive?
A negative result is great, because you have the reassurance that all is well. But when there is a positive result, you are faced with emotionally and ethically difficult choices regarding your treatment options, the prospect of dealing with a severely-affected newborn and the option of elective termination. Get expert medical advice and possibly professional counselling too to help you make the best decision.

Haven’t had your test yet? Here is what you can expect.

If you have questions on this post, or any other medical matter, please comment below or visit our Facebook page.

The information provided in this article was correct at the time of publishing. At Mediclinic we endeavour to provide our patients and readers with accurate and reliable information, which is why we continually review and update our content. However, due to the dynamic nature of clinical information and medicine, some information may from time to time become outdated prior to revision.