Amniocentesis in Pune
Accurate ultrasound guided amniocentesis in Pune at the best amniocentesis centre in Pune. Prenatal diagnostic test for Down syndrome, chromosomal abnormalities, genetic disorders and neural tube defects, with experienced amniocentesis doctors in Pune, pre and post procedure counselling and coordinated results at ASHA Sonography, the best radiology clinic in Pune, Hadapsar.
Being told you need an amniocentesis is one of the most emotionally difficult moments in a pregnancy. It means a screening test has flagged something that needs a definitive answer, and the wait for that answer is not easy. What you need at this stage is not just a technically skilled procedure but a compassionate, experienced team that explains every step clearly, supports you through the process and helps you understand what your results mean. At ASHA Sonography in Hadapsar, Dr. Devashree Salunkhe, FMF UK Certified Consultant Radiologist, provides ultrasound guidance and supervision for every amniocentesis procedure. With advanced training in fetal medicine and years of experience in high risk pregnancy imaging, she ensures that the ultrasound guidance during the procedure is accurate and safe, and that you and your partner receive clear, honest counselling before and after.
If your gynaecologist or fetal medicine specialist has referred you for amniocentesis in Pune after a high risk NT scan, abnormal Double Marker, abnormal NIPT or anomaly scan finding, or due to a family history of genetic conditions, ASHA Sonography is equipped to support you through this process with the care and expertise this moment deserves. We co-ordinate with trusted genetic laboratories in Pune for the chromosomal analysis so that you receive your results as quickly as possible.
What is Amniocentesis?
Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic procedure in which a small sample of amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the fluid filled sac surrounding the baby inside the uterus. This amniotic fluid contains fetal cells shed by the baby. These cells are sent to a genetics laboratory where the fetal chromosomes are studied in detail. The result gives a definitive answer about whether the baby has a chromosomal abnormality, genetic disorder or certain structural condition.
Unlike screening tests such as the NT scan, Double Marker, Quadruple Marker or NIPT (Non Invasive Prenatal Test), amniocentesis is a diagnostic test. This is a critical distinction. Screening tests tell you the probability or risk of a condition. Amniocentesis gives you a definitive yes or no answer about the fetal chromosomes. For this reason, amniocentesis is recommended when a screening test shows high risk results or when there is a specific clinical indication that requires a certain diagnosis before any decisions can be made.
The procedure is performed under continuous real time ultrasound guidance. A thin needle is passed through the mother’s abdomen into the amniotic sac and approximately 15 to 20 ml of amniotic fluid is collected. The sample is sent to a genetics laboratory for chromosomal analysis. At ASHA Sonography, the best amniocentesis centre in Pune, Dr. Devashree Salunkhe provides the ultrasound guidance during the procedure and ensures the needle path is carefully chosen to avoid the placenta, the baby and the umbilical cord.
Amniocentesis vs NIPT: What is the Difference?
Many expecting parents ask whether they need an amniocentesis or whether NIPT is sufficient. Understanding the difference is very important before making this decision:
| NIPT | Amniocentesis | |
|---|---|---|
| Type of test | Screening test | Diagnostic test |
| What it does | Estimates risk or probability | Gives a definitive chromosomal result |
| Sample used/td> | Mother’s blood (cell free fetal DNA) | Amniotic fluid (actual fetal cells) |
| Accuracy | 99% sensitivity for Down syndrome but can have false positives | Near 100% accurate, gold standard |
| Invasive | No, just a blood draw | Yes, needle into amniotic sac |
| Risk of miscarriage | None | Less than 0.5 percent (1 in 200 to 1 in 500) |
| Result time | 7 to 14 days | 3 to 4 weeks for full karyotype; FISH result in 48 to 72 hours |
| When recommended | After high risk screening (NT, Double Marker) | After abnormal NIPT, very high risk screening, specific clinical indications |
| Detects | Common trisomies 21 18 13, sex chromosome abnormalities | All chromosomal abnormalities, microdeletions, genetic disorders |
NIPT is a very good first step after a high risk screening result. However, a positive or high risk NIPT result should always be confirmed with amniocentesis before any irreversible decision is made about the pregnancy. NIPT has a small false positive rate and an amniocentesis provides the certainty that NIPT alone cannot give.
When is Amniocentesis Recommended?
Amniocentesis is not done routinely in every pregnancy. It is recommended only when there is a specific clinical indication. Your gynaecologist or fetal medicine specialist will discuss the need for amniocentesis with you based on your specific situation. Common indications include:
| Timing | Typically 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy (most commonly 16 to 18 weeks) |
| Also known as | Amniocentesis test, prenatal diagnostic test, fetal chromosome analysis, amnio |
| Performed by | Obstetrician or Fetal Medicine Specialist (needle insertion) |
| Ultrasound guidance | Dr. Devashree Salunkhe, FMF UK Certified Radiologist, ASHA Sonography |
| Laboratory | Co-ordinated with trusted genetics laboratories in Pune |
| FISH result | 48 to 72 hours for urgent results for common trisomies |
| Full karyotype result | 3 to 4 weeks |
| Location | ASHA Sonography, Hadapsar, Pune |
Book amniocentesis in Pune if any of these apply to you:
- Your NT scan showed increased nuchal translucency (above 3.5 mm)
- Your Double Marker or Quadruple Marker result showed high risk for Down syndrome, Trisomy 18 or Trisomy 13
- Your NIPT result came back positive or high risk and needs confirmation
- Your anomaly scan found a structural abnormality or soft marker that needs chromosomal confirmation
- You are above 35 years of age and want a definitive chromosomal diagnosis for your pregnancy
- You or your partner carries a known chromosomal translocation or genetic condition
- A previous pregnancy was affected by a chromosomal abnormality or genetic disorder
- Your fetal medicine specialist has advised amniocentesis for any other clinical reason
What Amniocentesis Can Detect
The amniotic fluid sample collected during amniocentesis can be analysed for a wide range of chromosomal and genetic conditions:
| Condition Dectected | Details |
|---|---|
| Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21) | Extra copy of chromosome 21. Most common chromosomal cause of intellectual disability. |
| Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18) | Extra copy of chromosome 18. Severe condition affecting multiple organ systems. |
| Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13) | Extra copy of chromosome 13. Causes severe brain, heart and organ defects. |
| Turner Syndrome (45 X) | Missing X chromosome in females. Affects growth and fertility. |
| Klinefelter Syndrome (47 XXY) | Extra X chromosome in males. |
| All Other Chromosomal Abnormalities | Full karyotype detects any structural or numerical chromosomal change. |
| Microdeletions and Microduplications | Small chromosomal segments missing or duplicated (requires array CGH or microarray testing). |
| Neural Tube Defects (AFP) | Elevated alpha-fetoprotein in amniotic fluid indicates open spina bifida or anencephaly. |
| Single Gene Disorders | Specific genetic mutations when indicated by family history (requires additional testing on same sample). |
| Fetal Lung Maturity | In selected late pregnancy cases where early delivery is planned. |
How the Amniocentesis Procedure is Done
Understanding exactly what happens during amniocentesis helps reduce anxiety. Here is a step by step explanation of how the procedure is carried out at ASHA Sonography:
Step 1: Pre-Procedure Ultrasound
Before the needle is inserted, Dr. Devashree Salunkhe performs a detailed ultrasound to confirm the baby’s position, locate the placenta, assess amniotic fluid levels, identify the safest pocket of fluid away from the baby and the placenta, and confirm the baby’s heart rate and wellbeing. This step is critical and takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Skin Preparation
The abdomen is cleaned with an antiseptic solution. The area to be used for needle insertion is prepared in a sterile manner. Local anaesthetic is applied to numb the skin in most cases.
Step 3: Needle Insertion Under Ultrasound Guidance
A thin sterile needle is passed through the mother’s abdomen under continuous real time ultrasound guidance. Dr. Devashree Salunkhe monitors the needle position on the ultrasound screen throughout the insertion to ensure it goes precisely into the amniotic fluid pocket without touching the baby, placenta or umbilical cord. Approximately 15 to 20 ml of amniotic fluid is withdrawn. The procedure typically takes 3 to 5 minutes once the needle is in place.
Step 4: Post Procedure Check
Once the needle is withdrawn, Dr. Devashree Salunkhe immediately performs a post-procedure ultrasound to confirm the baby’s heart rate and wellbeing, and check the needle entry site. You will be asked to rest for 30 minutes before leaving the clinic.
Step 5: Sample Dispatch and Results
The amniotic fluid sample is dispatched to the genetics laboratory the same day. FISH results for common trisomies (21, 18, 13 and sex chromosomes) are typically available in 48 to 72 hours. A full karyotype result takes 3 to 4 weeks. Dr. Devashree Salunkhe and your referring doctor will explain the results to you and discuss next steps.
Preparation & what to expect
Before your procedure
- No fasting is required before amniocentesis. You may eat and drink normally on the day.
- Both you and your partner are strongly encouraged to attend for pre-procedure counselling
- Carry your gynaecologist's or fetal medicine specialist's referral letter and all previous scan and test reports
- Bring your NT scan report, Double Marker or NIPT result, anomaly scan report and any relevant genetic test reports
- Inform Dr. Devashree Salunkhe if you are Rh negative, as you may need an anti-D injection after the procedure
- Inform her if you are taking any blood thinning medications such as aspirin, as these may need to be paused
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing that allows easy access to the abdomen
- Arrange for someone to accompany you and drive you home after the procedure
During the procedure
- You will lie comfortably on the examination table
- The entire procedure including pre and post ultrasound takes 60 to 90 minutes
- The needle insertion itself takes only 3 to 5 minutes
- Most women describe the sensation as mild pressure or a brief sharp sting. It is not the deeply painful procedure many expect.
- You are awake throughout. Dr. Devashree Salunkhe will explain what is happening at every step.
After the procedure
- Rest at the clinic for 30 minutes for monitoring after the procedure
- You may experience mild abdominal cramping or discomfort for a few hours. This is normal.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting and sexual intercourse for 24 to 48 hours
- Drink adequate fluids and rest at home for the remainder of the day
- Contact your doctor immediately if you develop fever, severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding or leaking of fluid from the vagina
- FISH results will be communicated within 48 to 72 hours. Full karyotype results in 3 to 4 weeks.
Risks of Amniocentesis: What You Need to Know
Amniocentesis is a safe and well established procedure but it does carry a small risk of miscarriage. This risk is approximately 0.5 percent or less when performed by an experienced team with proper ultrasound guidance. It is important to understand this risk clearly before proceeding. Pre-procedure counselling with your fetal medicine specialist and Dr. Devashree Salunkhe will help you weigh this risk against the value of the information the test provides for your specific situation.
| Risk | What to know |
|---|---|
| Miscarriage | Less than 0.5 percent risk. Significantly reduced with experienced ultrasound guidance. |
| Amniotic fluid leakage | Rare. Small amount of fluid may leak from the vagina. Usually self limiting. |
| Infection (chorioamnionitis) | Very rare. Strict sterile technique minimises this risk significantly. |
| Needle injury to baby | Extremely rare. Continuous real time ultrasound guidance prevents this. |
| Cramping and discomfort | Common for a few hours after the procedure. Usually mild and resolves with rest. |
| Rh sensitisation | Risk in Rh negative mothers. Prevented with anti-D injection after the procedure. |
The risk of a miscarriage from amniocentesis is often overestimated by patients. In experienced hands with real time ultrasound guidance, the actual risk is very low. Dr. Devashree Salunkhe will discuss the risk clearly and honestly during pre-procedure counselling so that you can make a fully informed decision.
WHY ASHA
Why Choose ASHA Sonography for Amniocentesis in Pune
- Ultrasound guidance by Dr. Devashree Salunkhe, FMF UK Certified Radiologist with advanced fetal medicine training
- Real time high resolution ultrasound to guide the needle safely away from baby, placenta and cord
- Thorough pre-procedure counselling for both partners in plain simple language
- Post-procedure fetal wellbeing check and monitoring before you leave the clinic
- Co-ordination with trusted genetics laboratories in Pune for fast and reliable results
- FISH results in 48 to 72 hours for urgent cases
- Compassionate, private and calm environment for a procedure that is emotionally difficult
- Transparent amniocentesis cost in Pune with no hidden charges
Areas we serve in Pune
Our clinic in Hadapsar is a short drive from Magarpatta City, Amanora Park Town, Mundhwa, Keshav Nagar, Fatima Nagar, Wanowrie, NIBM, Kondhwa, Koregaon Park, Kalyani Nagar, Kharadi and Viman Nagar. Patients also visit us from Camp, Pune Station and Yerawada for their amniocentesis in Pune.
TESTIMONIALS
What our patients say
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
What is amniocentesis?
Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is removed from around the baby in the uterus using a thin needle guided by real time ultrasound. The fluid contains fetal cells which are sent to a genetics laboratory for chromosomal analysis. It gives a definitive answer about whether the baby has a chromosomal abnormality such as Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13 or other genetic conditions.
What is the difference between amniocentesis and NIPT?
NIPT is a screening test done on a blood sample from the mother. It estimates the probability or risk of chromosomal conditions but cannot give a 100 percent certain diagnosis. Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test that analyses actual fetal chromosomes from the amniotic fluid. It gives a near definitive answer. NIPT is non-invasive and has no procedure risk. Amniocentesis has a small risk of miscarriage but provides certainty that NIPT cannot.
At how many weeks is amniocentesis done?
Amniocentesis is most commonly performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, with 16 to 18 weeks being the most commonly recommended window. Before 15 weeks the amniotic fluid volume is lower and the procedure carries a higher risk. After 20 weeks, the timing for making decisions about the pregnancy becomes more limited.
Is amniocentesis painful?
Most women describe amniocentesis as causing mild discomfort similar to a blood test or a sharp sting at the needle insertion site. It is rarely as painful as people expect. The procedure itself takes only 3 to 5 minutes. Dr. Devashree Salunkhe will explain each step clearly so there are no unexpected surprises during the procedure.
What is the risk of miscarriage from amniocentesis?
The risk of miscarriage associated with amniocentesis is approximately 0.5 percent or less when performed by an experienced team with proper real time ultrasound guidance. This means the procedure is safe in the vast majority of cases. Dr. Devashree Salunkhe will discuss this risk honestly during pre-procedure counselling so you can make a fully informed decision with your fetal medicine specialist.
How long does it take to get amniocentesis results?
FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation) results for common chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13 and sex chromosome abnormalities are typically available in 48 to 72 hours. A full karyotype which checks all chromosomes takes 3 to 4 weeks. For urgent clinical situations, FISH results are prioritised.
Do I need to fast before amniocentesis?
No. Fasting is not required before amniocentesis. You can eat and drink normally on the day of the procedure. Do make sure to have a light meal and stay well hydrated.
Can my husband or partner come with me for the amniocentesis?
Yes, absolutely. This is a procedure that affects both of you and having your partner present for the pre-procedure counselling and during the procedure itself is strongly encouraged. Having support with you makes the experience much more manageable.
What happens if the amniocentesis result is abnormal?
If the karyotype shows a chromosomal abnormality, Dr. Devashree Salunkhe and your referring fetal medicine specialist or gynaecologist will meet with you to explain the specific finding, what it means for the baby, and what options are available to you. You will be given time and full support to understand the result before making any decisions. No decision needs to be rushed.
What is the amniocentesis cost in Pune at ASHA Sonography?
We keep our amniocentesis fees transparent with no hidden charges. The cost includes the ultrasound guidance, pre and post procedure care, monitoring and co-ordination with the genetics laboratory. Contact us on +91 7030343203 or visit our clinic in Hadapsar to know the current amniocentesis cost in Pune.
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