Advice for Amniocentesis Test

[CherryBlossom100]

Hi everyone. I'm 23 weeks pregnant with twins. At the 20 week scan they found a few anomalies with twin 1. Was referred to fetal medicine and they think high probability of chromosome issues.
I had the same with my 4 year old who has a brain abnormality but is currently developing well.
They would like me to have a amino. I refused with my daughter but considering for this pregnancy as the risks are higher and will now have 3 children not 1 so need all the info i can get.
The amino wouldn't be until nearer 30 weeks due to risk for other twin.
Has anyone had this test and can tell me a bit about how it happens and any recovery time etc. I'm a single parent and will still be working full time when I have the test so need to know if I'll need help after the test/get time off work.
Thanks.

I had this test in April. The procedure itself is quick and relatively painless. You go in and lie down while they scan to see the position of the baby/babies. They then perform the procedure where they insert a long needle into the amniotic fluid, while watching on the monitor to ensure they stay away from the babies. The needle is in for maybe 30 seconds or so, and taken back out with a sample of fluid. It's uncomfortable, but not very painful. I was surprised at how painless it was as the needle is long but extremely thin. That's it really. No particular recovery required, other than maybe taking it a little easier than usual for a few hours afterwards. I felt physically fine afterwards and couldn't even see on my stomach where the needle had gone in. The harder part is the wait. I had my amnio on the Thurs morning and got my results back on the Monday afternoon, though times vary depending on what they are testing for.
Very best of luck to you, I hope all is well.

Thank you. That is very helpful. I hope your results had a positive outcome.

Thank you, I received good news. I hope you do too.

I've had amnio done at 29 weeks and it wasn't too bad - they will scan your baby and you'll have a consultant and midwife both doing it. If you don't like needles, just have someone holding your hand, but the needle is in for 20-30 seconds max.