Reviewed by: Dr. Priyadatt Patel, Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead. Last updated: 26 May 2026.
Fetal Medicine · Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis at Balaji Horizon
Second-trimester invasive diagnostic test sampling amniotic fluid for chromosomal analysis, specific genetic testing, and other prenatal diagnostics from 16 weeks of pregnancy.
Procedure
How amniocentesis is performed
Under continuous ultrasound guidance, a fine needle is inserted through the maternal abdomen and 15-20 ml of amniotic fluid is withdrawn for testing. Procedure takes 5-10 minutes.
Indications
When amniocentesis is offered
- High-risk second-trimester screening
- Abnormal NIPT requiring confirmation
- Suspected structural anomaly
- Known parental genetic condition
- Maternal infection requiring fetal infection assessment
- Previous baby with chromosomal abnormality
Aftercare and results
What to expect
Rest 24-48 hours, avoid heavy lifting and intercourse for one week. Rapid FISH results in 2-3 days; full karyotype in 10-14 days; molecular genetic tests in 1-3 weeks depending on specific test.
Common questions
Frequently asked
Is amniocentesis painful?
Most women describe mild cramping or pressure. Local anaesthesia is offered. Recovery is typically uneventful.
Will my baby be harmed?
Procedure-related miscarriage risk in experienced hands is under 0.3 percent. Direct fetal injury during the procedure is extremely rare with ultrasound guidance.
Can amniocentesis test for everything?
It can test for chromosomal abnormalities and specific genetic conditions when ordered. It does not screen for all possible problems or structural anomalies (which need ultrasound).
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Dr. Priyadatt Patel
Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead
MS OBGyn · Pregnancy Care · Advanced Gynaecological Ultrasound · Fertility Preservation
ESHRE / ESGE / AAGL / ASRM guideline-aligned practice. 3D Karl Storz precision technique. Fertility-preservation-first philosophy. Evidence-based decisions, honest counselling, long-term outcomes orientation.
Endometriosis
Superficial to deep infiltrating, fertility-preserving excision
IVF & Fertility
Individualised protocols, ART Level 2 lab, transparent outcomes
Advanced Laparoscopy
3D Karl Storz precision, nerve-sparing technique
Pregnancy Care
Antenatal care, high-risk pregnancy, advanced ultrasound
Balaji Horizon Women Hospital
Science City Road, Ahmedabad 380060
Mon–Sat 11:00–20:00 · +91 97234 31544
Balaji Women Clinic (AEC)
Naranpura, Ahmedabad
Mon–Sat 08:30–10:30 · +91 70460 02566
