How is an amniocentesis performed?
Your doctor will first perform an ultrasound to make sure that there is sufficient amniotic fluid to remove, and that the area in which the needle will be inserted is clear of the baby and the placenta. After cleaning the abdomen, a local anesthetic is administered into the skin. Using ultrasound for guidance, a long needle is inserted into an area clear of the baby and placenta, and a small quantity of the amniotic fluid is withdrawn. The procedure is usually performed to provide fluid for testing.
