Are there any test results that need to be checked before I have an amniocentesis?
It is important to confirm how far your pregnancy has progressed (your gestational age) before your amniocentesis is booked. It is not recommended to have an amniocentesis before 15 weeks gestation, as the risk of complications is higher.
Your blood group should also be known before having an amniocentesis. If you are a ‘negative’ blood group (Rhesus negative), then you will need to have an injection of anti-D immunoglobulin after the procedure.
Your hepatitis B and HIV status (and hepatitis C, if performed) should also be reviewed. All pregnant women are tested for these infections in early pregnancy, so the results should be readily available.
You should discuss your individual circumstances with your doctor if you are positive for any of these infections.
How should I look after myself after the procedure?
You should avoid any heavy physical activity after your procedure, but you do not need to rest in bed. You should feel physically back to normal by the next day and can resume your normal activities after 1-2 days. Your doctor should discuss what to expect following an amniocentesis. Some mild period-like pain is common on the first night, and it is safe to use a regular dose of paracetamol for pain relief.
When to get medical advice?
If you have any vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, high fever or unusual fluid loss from the vagina, you should go to your emergency department. In general, if you have been well for the first week or two after the amniocentesis, it is unlikely that any complications will happen after this.