Who is offered amniocentesis?
Health-care providers do not routinely offer amniocentesis to all pregnant women because it carries the small risk of miscarriage. They offer amniocentesis when there is an increased risk of chromosomal or genetic birth defects, or certain malformations. Amniocentesis may be offered because of: Maternal age: If a woman will be 35 or older at the time of delivery, health-care providers offer the option of prenatal diagnostic testing for chromosomal disorders. A previous child or pregnancy with a birth defect. Abnormal screening test results. Family history. Down’s syndrome Down’s syndrome is one of the most common genetic birth disorders, which affects about one in 800 babies. The disease occurs in about one in 1,250 children born to women in their 20s. The chances increase to about one in 400 by age 35, one in 100 at age 40, and one in 30 at age 45. Affected individuals have some degree of mental retardation, characteristic facial features and, often, heart defects and other health pro
