Why do I need amniocentesis?
You may want this test if you are at higher risk for having a baby with a health problem. Risk factors include:
Your age. Women who are age 35 or older are at higher risk of having a baby with a genetic disorder.
Family history of a genetic disorder or birth defect
Partner who is a carrier of a genetic disorder
Having had a baby with a genetic disorder in a previous pregnancy
Rh incompatibility. This condition causes a mother's immune system to attack her baby's red blood cells.
Your provider may also recommend this test if any of your prenatal screening tests were not normal.
