An amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure performed in the early second trimester or third trimester that involves puncture of the skin and uterus with a thin needle usually under ultrasound guidance and collection of amniotic fluid from within the uterine cavity.
Instructions for women getting Amniocentesis:
Call your doctor any time you are concerned and specifically if you experience any of the following:
· If you just feel ill in any way.
· If you have abdominal or back pain worse than menstrual cramps.
· If you have rhythmic lower-abdominal pain.
· If you have vaginal bleeding.
· If there is any fluid or unusual discharge from the vagina.
· If there is foul-smelling vaginal discharge
· If you feel hot, take your temperature. Call your doctor if your temperature is above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Centigrade).
On the day of the procedure:
· You can eat and drink normally.
· You can shower or take a bath.
· You should not work.
· Relax for the rest of the day, sitting or lying down.
· You should not drive a car, not exercise, no heavy lifting, no long walks, no housework, no cooking or shopping, no sexual intercourse.
· If you have children at home, have someone else take care of them for the rest of the day.
· Drink at least four large glasses (8 oz. each) of water or juice during the remainder of the day. Empty your bladder every 1-2 hours.
· It's normal to experience a little pain or burning in the skin where the needle entered.
· It is normal to experience some lower abdominal, pelvic, or back pain (cramping, heaviness, pressure, discomfort). This should be gone by the following morning.
· You may take 1-2 tablets regular strength Tylenol (acetaminophen) every 4-6 hours if needed.
On the day after the procedure:
· If you feel well, you may return to work. There is nothing wrong with taking another day off.
· Gentle walking is OK.
For three days after the procedure (the day of the procedure and the two following days):
· Don't do any strenuous exercise
· Don't lift anything heavy
· Long-distance travel should be avoided
SEE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE FOR WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR
