Define amniocentesis.

Explanation

Amniocentesis : Amniocentesis or amniotic fluid test (AFT ) is a prenatal test used in prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities and fetal infections, and also for sex determination in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is removed from the sac surrounding the foetus for testing. The amniotic fluid (less than one ounce) is taken with a fine needle and is inserted into the uterus through the abdomen, under ultrasound guidance. The fluid is then tested in the laboratory for analysis. Different tests can be performed on a sample of amniotic fluid, depending on the genetic risk and indication for the test.