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Amniocentesis

• Overview
• Risks
• Results

Alternative Names:

Culture - amniotic fluid; Culture - amniotic cells

What the risks are:

There is a slight chance of infection or injury to the fetus. There is even a smaller chance of miscarriage . This test is typically performed when a problem is suspected, so the benefits outweigh the risk.

Special considerations:

There may be alternatives to the amniocentesis. These should be discussed with the health care provider.

• Review Date: 5/15/2006
• Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network

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