The risks

Amniocentesis is a standard medical procedure. There is a very low risk of miscarriage, which is why amniocentesis is only offered to women over 38 or at risk of having a baby with abnormalities.

There are false figures quoted about the risk of miscarriage after amniocentesis, especially in the media. There is a risk, but it is between 0.5 and 1%. 

Nevertheless, many mums-to-be often worry, not just about the risk of miscarriage but about the procedure itself: the idea of sticking a needle into your pregnant stomach so close to the baby. Don't worry: the chances of harming your baby are minimal.