Amniocentesis

[JoannaMomToBe]

Hi guys, I'm about to have my amniocentesis very soon. I was very sure when I was booking it weeks ago, but I read about all the low-risk but nasty possible side effects and now feeling nervous. Have you had amnio? What was your experience like?

Paid £400 for the private blood test so I didn't risk my pregnancy.

I've had two done both at 17 weeks, was very nervous as you would expect. It wasn't as uncomfortable as I thought it would be, did have some cramping for a few days afterwards, just rested, nothing strenuous, was absolutely fine after a few days, both times, was worth it for peace of mind.

Thanks for your reply, Flidina. Glad your amnio worked out for you. Sorry to hear you had some cramping, was it really sore?
Do you mind if I ask, did they give you an anaesthetic? Did they keep the needle long in your belly? I know these questions might seem crazy, but I'm just here in bed worrying. Can't stop thinking about it today.

Hi @JoannaMomToBe I had an amniocentesis 10 weeks ago, just before 20wks. I couldn't have the normal 12 week bloods due to a vanishing twin, bloods taken later for a slightly different test came back as high for downs (1/28) and amniocentesis was the only option.

The procedure was actually all quite calm and 'nice'. Got to fetal medicine unit and had a private consultation with a specialist nurse/midwife just explaining everything again - why, the risks of anything happening (1/100) the procedure itself and given the option again to decline it if My partner and I wanted. Then went for a scan with doctor to establish position of baby and best place to take sample. You are led flat out so can't see anything happening which was fine with me. The nurse then used a lot of antiseptic fluid to clean all over bump, doctor put ultrasound back on and then began to insert the needle. No need to numb the area as the needle is incredibly fine - I've had bigger needles used to take a blood sample. There's a bit of pressure but not painful at all. Doctor kept scanning at all times to ensure she stayed away from baby. Then needle is removed and small plaster popped on. Allowed to take time to sit up and ask any questions. Advice for me was that I might get some cramping but if anything untoward to call them. Luckily all I had was a brief couple of cramps later but that was after being sat in the car for some time.

Test was done at 5pm on a Wednesday and luckily they got my results back quickly and they had called with good news by 6pm on the Friday - had been expecting a long wait over the weekend so that was a big relief.

Also to add they sometimes have to take two samples if there isn't enough fluid from the first but they managed to get enough the first time.

Sorry for the long post but just wanted to say basically it's a very quick and, for me, it was pain free. The worst part of it all is the knowledge of what they are doing and why. Take it easy after and I wish you well with the test and your results x

This was exactly how mine went yesterday, they take more time preparing, cleaning than it does to do the actual procedure. The doctor, nurse and Midwife was lovely and caring. My doctor bless her took a breath b4 she started. I suppose its got to an awful produce for them to carryout themselves. No pain at all for me. Some slight stinging for an hour or so later and it is sore to touch. The main thing is with me is that I keep looking out for movements which is horrible when they dnt move and then u want them to. Its so mentally draining. Now I have a long weekend of waiting. I think Tuesday I should get the fast track results. I hope u ladies had good outcomes 💖