Are there any risks to the amniocentesis procedure?

Yes.: As with any procedure, there are risks. Possible complications include direct or indirect fetal injury, rupture of membranes, infection, & miscarriage. Maternal injury and direct injury to the fetus are especially rare. Timing also affects risk-- amniocentesis done before 15 weeks carries a higher risk of complications. Second trimester amniocentesis carries the lowest risk of fetal loss.

Few risks: There are very few risks when amniocentesis is in the capable hands of an experienced MD. The most notable risks are infection, or early labor/ miscarriage.