Amniocentesis Meaning and Definition
Amniocentesis
Pronunciation
/əˌmɪoʊsɛnˈtɛsɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A medical procedure in which a sample of amniotic fluid is taken from the womb during pregnancy to test for chromosomal abnormalities or other genetic disorders.
Examples
- The doctor recommended an amniocentesis to determine whether the fetus had Down syndrome.
- The test results from the amniocentesis confirmed that the baby had no health issues.
- The mother chose to undergo an amniocentesis to alleviate her concerns about the baby’s health.
- The amniocentesis was performed to determine the baby’s sex and whether it had any genetic disorders.
- The procedure was risky, but the parents felt it was necessary to get accurate information about the baby’s health from the amniocentesis.
Synonyms
- Amniotic fluid test
- Prenatal testing
Antonyms
- Ultrasound
- Biopsy
Additional Information
Amniocentesis is a prenatal test that is usually performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy. The test involves inserting a needle into the mother’s uterus to collect a sample of amniotic fluid, which is then tested for chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders. Amniocentesis is a safe procedure when performed by a qualified healthcare provider, but it does carry some risks, such as miscarriage or premature labor.
The results of an amniocentesis can be used to determine whether the fetus has any genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities, and can help parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy.
Etymology
The word “amniocentesis” is derived from the Greek words “amnios,” meaning “fluid surrounding the fetus,” and “centesis,” meaning “puncture” or “incision.”
Usage Notes
The word “amniocentesis” is typically used in medical and scientific contexts to refer to the procedure of collecting amniotic fluid for testing.
Cultural References
The word “amniocentesis” has been featured in several TV shows and movies, including “The Good Wife” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” often in the context of a pregnancy or medical drama.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
No idiomatic expressions or phrases.
Related Words or Phrases
Amniotic fluid, pregnancy, prenatal testing, chromosomal abnormalities.
Collocations
Amniocentesis is often collocated with words such as “test,” “procedure,” “prenatal,” and “genetic.”
Frequency of Use
Amniocentesis is a relatively rare procedure, but it is used frequently in medical and scientific contexts to refer to the testing of amniotic fluid.
amniocentesis, amniocnetesis, amniocensis.