The doctor inserts a long, thin, hollow needle through the mother's abdomen into the uterus and amniotic fluid. Usually the doctor uses ultrasound imaging to guide the needle. The small amount of fluid removed should not affect the baby. The risk of complications from the procedure is low, but, as with any procedure, complications can occur. Be sure to consult with your doctor before the procedure is performed.
Amniocentesis helps the doctor estimate the baby's lung maturity.
As their lungs mature, the chemical composition changes. These changes can be measured from the amniotic fluid and used to estimate the maturity of the lungs.