What will amniocentesis be like?

Not so bad: The doctor will look for a pocket of amniotic fluid using ultrasound. He or she will then introduce a long but very thin needle into this pocket and withdraw some fluid. The needle is a little painful going into the skin but it is very thin so it should not be severe. There is a cramp when it goes through the uterine wall. Most women think it wasn't as bad as they feared.

A 'pinch' or 'ouch'?: Typical method: consent is obtained; questions answered. Ultrasound is used to find best location for needle. Iodine is wiped on skin. Ultrasound is placed on abdomen again. Skin may be numbed by injection. Amniocentesis needle (long but thin) is inserted through abdominal wall into amniotic sac. Syringe is attached; fluid is withdrawn. Heartbeat is checked. Skin is cleaned. Instructions are given.