You had an amniocentesis. This is a prenatal test. It helps you learn whether a fetus has health problems. The test is most often done between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy. It is also done to check the condition of the lungs of a baby who will be delivered several weeks early.
Home care
-
Limit your activity for
24 to 48 hours after the procedure. -
Know the risks involved with amniocentesis. This can help you recognize if you are having complications. Make sure you understand the following risks:
-
Loss of blood
-
Infection
-
Harm to the baby from the needle
-
Harm to the placenta or cord from the needle
-
Premature breaking of the amniotic sac
-
Premature labor or contractions
-
Miscarriage
-
-
Don’t be alarmed if you have some brief, mild cramping. This is normal.
Follow-up
Make a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following:
-
Fever above
100.4 °F ° (38 °C ) or chills -
Bright red vaginal bleeding or a smelly discharge
-
Contractions or severe cramping
-
Liquid vaginal discharge that doesn’t stop
-
Redness or swelling where your healthcare provider inserted the needle
-
Decreased movement of the baby if the amniocentesis is done late in pregnancy
Online Medical Reviewer: Kanipe, Jennifer, RN, BSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Sacks, Daniel, MD, FACOG
Date Last Reviewed: 08/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.