What is amniocentesis like?

Like an ultrasound..: Its like getting an ultrasound of your baby. While doing the ultrasound, the doctor looks for a pocket of amniotic fluid. Under direct visualization with the ultrasound, the needle is inserted into the fluid pocket. Amniotic fluid is withdrawn. The needle is removed. Its usually not more painful than a flu shot. Best wishes.

Not too bad: Amniocentesis at 18-20 weeks feels like a cramping sensation. A little bit of pain, but fleeting. Amniocentesis at term hardly feels painful at all as the uterus is so stretched.