Amniocentesis
About the Test
The amniotic fluid surrounding your baby in the womb contains some of the baby’s own cells — and with them, the baby’s chromosomes. By examining that fluid, we can look at the genetic material it carries and check for various genetic conditions, including Down syndrome and others.
This test is done when something has come up that calls for a closer look — for example, a finding on the anatomy scan, the nuchal translucency scan, or the screening blood tests, or a family genetic history that needs following up. It’s carried out under completely sterile conditions, and it’s no more painful than an ordinary blood test.
If the test does reveal an abnormality or a condition in the baby, our medical team is here for both of you — with guidance, support, and help through whatever you decide.
Important: In line with Israeli Ministry of Health guidelines, this test can be done from week 16 of pregnancy, and no later than week 22 plus six days.
Good to Know
When is the test recommended?
- When screening results point to a higher-than-usual chance of a baby with Down syndrome
- When there’s an increased risk of an inherited condition that can be tested for
- When a geneticist recommends it after something abnormal has shown up on ultrasound
The test and your results
- The test itself usually takes just a few minutes.
- How long you’ll wait for results depends on how quickly the baby’s cells grow in the lab, but an answer usually comes back within three to four weeks of the test.
