Amniocentesis is a procedure used to take out a small sample of the amniotic fluid for testing. This is the fluid that surrounds the fetus in a pregnant woman. Amniotic fluid is a clear, pale yellow fluid that: Protects the fetus from injury.
How Much Does Amniocentesis Cost In South Africa
It depends where you have your procedure done, which medical scheme you’re with, and whether the sample is being run for a full Karyotype or as a FISH test, but the cost can range between R5 000 and R9 000 (this was the price range quoted for my case).
How will I feel after an amniocentesis?
Most women have no symptoms, however, you may have some mild cramping similar to menstrual cramps.
These cramps may last for several hours, but not usually longer than 24 hours.
What conditions do amniocentesis test for?
Amniocentesis is a prenatal procedure that your doctor may recommend you have during pregnancy.
The test checks for fetal abnormalities (birth defects) such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or spina bifida.
In most cases, the results are normal. Amniocentesis is performed between 16 and 20 weeks into the pregnancy.
What are the disadvantages of amniocentesis?
Infection. There is a very small chance that the amniotic fluid may get infected.
Injury. There is a chance that your baby may be poked by the needle during the test.
Bleeding. There is a small chance that you could bleed during the test.
Foot defect.
How long does it take to get amniocentesis results?
Results of genetic testing usually take about 2 weeks. Other test results come back in 1 to 3 days. Sometimes amniocentesis is also used later in pregnancy to: Diagnose infection.