This test is performed between the 14th and 18th week of pregnancy. Essentially, this test will enable your healthcare professional to look at fetal cells in the amniotic fluid for signs of certain birth defects. A normal result does not guarantee the birth of a normal baby. During this diagnostic procedure, a needle is inserted into the amniotic sac and a small amount of fluid is removed. If you are 35 or older at the time of delivery, there's a good chance your healthcare professional will recommend this test because women over 35 have a higher risk of having a baby with Down's syndrome. It's also recommended if you've already had a child with a birth defect, or if you have a family or personal history that puts you at risk for an inherited disease.

This definition is in context to Female Health. See more contextual defintions for Amniocentesis.