Patient's question:
I am 38 years old and 15 weeks pregnant. The doctor said it's time for screening, noting that for women over 35, the results of the triple screen test will definitely be high-risk, and a amniocentesis will still be necessary. They recommended that I undergo an amniocentesis directly.I don’t really understand amniocentesis, but I’ve heard it’s very risky and can easily lead to miscarriage, so I’m very hesitant and scared, unsure of what to do.
This is my second pregnancy. My first was a boy, now 14 years old, and the pregnancy and delivery were completely normal—natural birth. The child is smart, healthy, and does well in school. I don’t have any family history of genetic diseases, and both my husband and I are in good health with no medical issues. I’m wondering if it’s necessary for me in this situation.
Doctor's answer:
Hello, as you are a high-risk pregnant woman, it is recommended that you undergo an amniocentesis. Amniocentesis can detect fetal chromosome karyotype analysis and diagnose chromosomal genetic diseases. It can also be used to diagnose genetic diseases and metabolic diseases using amniotic fluid cell DNA. Additionally, it can diagnose diseases such as fetal open neural tube defects.Guidance:
Amniocentesis does carry certain risks, but the overall risk rate, particularly the risk of causing fetal miscarriage, is generally no more than 1%. Moreover, in large and medium-sized hospitals, amniocentesis is performed under ultrasound guidance. This means we must monitor the procedure using ultrasound to avoid the child and the placenta. As a result, the possibility of causing harm to the child is further reduced.