What is amniocentesis?
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure where a small amount of amniotic fluid is taken from around the baby in the womb to test for chromosomal conditions, genetic disorders, or infections.

When is it performed?
Usually done between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. It may also be performed later for specific concerns.

How is it done?
Using real-time ultrasound, a thin needle is carefully inserted through the abdomen into the amniotic sac to collect fluid.

What conditions can it detect?
It can detect genetic conditions - aneuploidies like down syndrome, spinal muscular atrophy, thalassemia and intrauterine infections.

Is it safe?
Yes. The risk of miscarriage is very less at 0.2 - 0.3 percent

How soon are results available?
The time it takes to receive your results will depend on what tests the lab needs to conduct on the amniotic fluid.
You may hear some information from your doctor as soon as 1 week after your test. Some test results may take 2 weeks or longer.

What is CVS and why is it done?
CVS is an early diagnostic test that collects a small sample of placental tissue to identify chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.

When is CVS performed?
Typically between 10 and 13 weeks, making it earlier than amniocentesis.

How is the sample collected?
The sample is taken through the cervix (transcervical) or through the abdomen (transabdominal), guided by ultrasound.

What disorders can CVS detect?
It can detect conditions like Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and other inherited disorders.

Is it safe?
Yes. The risk of miscarriage is very less at 0.2 - 0.3 percent

How soon are results available?
The turnaround time for your results will depend on the type of tests the lab conducts on the placental biopsy.
You may hear some information from your doctor as soon as 1 week after your test. Some test results may take 2 weeks or longer.

What is amnioreduction?
Amnioreduction is a therapeutic procedure where excess amniotic fluid is drained from the womb to treat polyhydramnios or complications in twin pregnancies like TTTS.

Why is it done?
Too much fluid can cause maternal discomfort, preterm labour, and preterm premature rupture of membranes. Amnioreduction helps relieve pressure and balance fluid levels.

How is the fluid removed?
A needle is inserted through the abdomen under ultrasound guidance to drain a safe amount of amniotic fluid.

Is this painful or risky?
The procedure is usually well-tolerated with minimal discomfort. Risks are rare but include infection or mild contractions.

Is it repeated?
Yes, sometimes multiple sessions are needed depending on how the fluid re-accumulates.

What is cordocentesis?
Also called Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS), this test involves taking a small blood sample directly from the baby’s umbilical cord.

When is it used?
Cordocentesis is used to diagnose infections, confirm chromosomal disorders, or assess fetal anemia or blood disorders.

Can it be used for treatment too?
Yes. Cordocentesis also allows intrauterine transfusions if the baby is anemic.

Is it safe?
In skilled hands, it is very safe. The procedure takes only a few minutes, and both mother and baby are monitored closely afterward.

How soon are results available?
Result timelines may vary depending on the tests required on the fetal blood obtained.
You may hear some information from your doctor as soon as 1 week after your test. Some test results may take 2 weeks or longer.

What is multifetal reduction?
This is a procedure used to reduce the number of fetuses in a multiple pregnancy, often done when three or more babies are present, or if one fetus has a severe abnormality.

Why is it needed?
Higher-order multiple pregnancies carry greater risks of premature delivery, miscarriage, and low birth weight. Reducing the number can improve outcomes for the remaining babies.

How is it done?

• In dichorionic pregnancies, a medication is injected into the targeted fetus under ultrasound guidance.
• In monochorionic pregnancies, cord occlusion methods (like RFA or bipolar coagulation) are used instead.

Is it safe?
Yes. The risk of miscarriage is very less at 0.2 - 0.3 percent

Is the procedure emotionally difficult?
Yes, and we understand. At Ncare, we offer emotional support and counseling to help you make informed, compassionate choices.