Amniocentesis is a procedure that gathers fluid and cells from your uterus during pregnancy. The sample is then tested to find out whether your pregnancy has certain genetic disorders. This diagnostic test also can look for problems with infection or with lung development.

You can choose to have amniocentesis instead of or in addition to other prenatal genetic tests (see Prenatal Genetic Diagnostic Tests). You may hear amniocentesis called an “amnio” for short.” [SOURCE]

If you’ve been given a life-limiting diagnosis for your unborn child, we want you to know that joy and sorrow can (and do!) coexist. Click here to reach out for support.