Amniocentesis

How It Feels

You will feel a sharp sting or burn in your belly where the needle is inserted. This lasts for only a few seconds. When the needle is put into your uterus, you again will feel a sharp cramp for a few seconds.

When the amniotic fluid is taken out, you may get a feeling of pulling or pressure in your belly. To keep yourself comfortable, breath slowly and relax your belly muscles during the test.


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Author: Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Last Updated: October 12, 2006
Medical Review: Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine
Siobhan M. Dolan, MD, MPH - Reproductive Genetics
Liisa Honey, MD, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Topic Contents
 Test Overview
 Health Tools Click here to view Health Tools.
 Why It Is Done
 How To Prepare
 How It Is Done
Arrow PointerHow It Feels
 Risks
 Results
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits