Amniocentesis
Alternate Names : Culture - Amniotic Cells, Culture - Amniotic Fluid
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How is the Test Performed?
The exact location of the fetus is determined, usually by ultrasound (see pregnancy ultrasound). The skin of the abdomen is scrubbed and a topical anesthetic may be applied, or a local anesthetic may be injected into the skin. A long, thin needle is inserted through the abdomen and into the uterus. A small amount of fluid is taken from the fluid-filled sac surrounding the fetus (usually about 1 cc. per week of gestation).
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