Skin is cleaned with antiseptic. Position of the fetus is determined by ultrasonography. Sterile spinal needle is inserted through skin, muscle and uterus into the amniotic cavity. It is aimed toward the back of the neck of the fetus. Needle is withdrawn.
Small bandage is placed over the injection-withdrawal site on the skin.
Amniotic fluid is sent to the laboratory for analysis. After the test Immediate post-test care Your breathing rate, blood pressure and pulse, and the heart rate of the fetus are monitored every 15 minutes for at least 60 minutes. Activity after test If you feel faint or nauseated or perspire profusely, lie on your left side to counteract uterine pressure. Abnormal test results or failure of tissue cultures to grow may require repetition of the test. Time before test results available Not available.