Understanding Your Amniocentesis Results

Having trouble understanding what your amniocentesis results mean for you and your developing baby? Every expectant mother wants to be sure that her baby is healthy and happy, which can lead to a lot of worry and sleepless nights. To eliminate a bit of the stress and confusion, here is some information that may help you understand your amniocentesis results. However, while it will eliminate confusion, you shouldn't hesitate to ask your doctor if you are still having trouble understanding your amniocentesis results.

Your amniocentesis results will let you know whether or not your developing baby has any chromosomal abnormalities that cause mental retardation or birth defects. Amniocentesis results can also alert expectant mothers to other birth defects.

Your amniocentesis results will either be positive or negative. If they are negative, your baby is free from chromosomal abnormalities and other birth defects that the test is designed to identify. However, 'normal' results, while desirable, do not guarantee that your baby will be 100% healthy. Amniocentesis results do not reflect non chromosomal abnormalities including certain types of mental retardation, heart defects, or other conditions.

Positive amniocentesis results have identified a chromosomal (either missing chromosomes or parts of chromosomes, or extra chromosomes) abnormality. After receipt of your amniocentesis results, your physician will sit down and discuss what these abnormalities will mean for the future of your baby. Don't be afraid to bring up any questions that you have, no matter how many or how many times you need to ask them to make sure that you have a thorough understanding of your baby's future. However, before seeking a second opinion, you should know that amniocentesis results are around 99.8% accurate.

Unfortunately, chromosomal abnormalities are genetic and currently incurable. If your child suffers from a chromosomal abnormality, you will be offered immediate genetic counseling. This counseling can be done by your doctor, midwife, genetic counselor, or other pediatric specialist. Whomever you are directed to, rest assured that they have a wealth of knowledge and years of experience with expectant mothers who are facing the same challenges that you are. During your sessions, you will discuss, amongst other things, your options to terminate or continue the pregnancy.

Whichever choice you make, continued support by practitioners and support groups will be made available to you. Be sure to take advantage of these opportunities no matter what your decision. And, no matter the outcome of your amniocentesis results, be sure to keep in close contact with your physicians and counselors to ensure the health of your child.