Is amniocentesis compulsory for women aged 35 and over?
Amniocentesis is still the diagnostic test that gives a definitive answer in every case. However, the procedure also carries a risk of losing the fetus (1 in 200 to 1 in 300). A series of screening tests have been developed over the past few years that provide women aged 35 and over with an alternative to amniocentesis. The detection rate of these screening tests, however, is never 100%. You should therefore understand and accept the fact that, while these screening tests avoid amniocentesis and its risks, a number of chromosomal abnormalities may remain undetected, depending on the test selected. If you want to be 100% sure that the fetus has no chromosomal abnormality and you are 35 years of age or older, you should opt for amniocentesis. Talk to your doctor about which test is most likely to meet your requirements.
