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Risks
By Mayo Clinic staffAmniocentesis carries various risks, including:
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Miscarriage. Early amniocentesis carries a slight risk of miscarriage, often due to rupture of the amniotic sac. The risk of miscarriage is highest when the procedure is done early in pregnancy, before the two layers of fetal membranes have sealed. By the second trimester, however, the risk of miscarriage drops. For years, the risk of miscarriage was generally considered to be one in 200. Today, the risk is between one in 300 and one in 500.
When amniocentesis is used later in pregnancy to assess a baby's lung maturity, rupture of the amniotic sac causes much less concern because safe delivery is nearly always possible at that point.
- Cramping and vaginal bleeding. Cramping is possible after amniocentesis. Some women experience a small amount of vaginal bleeding.
- Needle injury. During amniocentesis, the baby may move an arm or leg into the path of the needle. Serious needle injuries are rare.
- Leaking amniotic fluid. Rarely, amniotic fluid leaks through the vagina after amniocentesis. If the leak seals, the pregnancy may proceed normally. Sometimes, however, the leakage leads to orthopedic problems for the baby in early infancy and childhood.
- Rh sensitization. Rarely, amniocentesis may cause the baby's blood cells to enter the mother's bloodstream. If you have Rh negative blood, you'll be given a drug called Rh immunoglobulin after amniocentesis to prevent you from producing antibodies against your baby's blood cells.
- Infection. Very rarely, amniocentesis may trigger a uterine infection.
Remember, genetic amniocentesis is typically offered when the test results may have a significant impact on the management of the pregnancy. Ultimately, the decision to have genetic amniocentesis is up to you. Your health care provider or genetic counselor can help you weigh all the factors in the decision.
Maturity amniocentesis is often suggested when early delivery would be best for the mother. With minimal risks, maturity amniocentesis can offer assurance that the baby is ready for birth.
If you develop a fever following amniocentesis or if vaginal bleeding or uterine cramping lasts more than several hours, contact your health care provider.
