Gina

Amniocentesis/Amniotic Fluid Testing

“I was told I’d have trouble getting pregnant. But I got pregnant right away…which was a surprise to my husband and me.”

Gina works part-time in medical billing as she pursues her master’s degree in theater.

Gina’s ultrasound showed that the baby’s kidneys were dilated, which might indicate a chromosome problem. Additionally, Gina’s husband had a family history of chromosome abnormalities. Therefore, her doctor recommended that Gina have an amniocentesis.

“My husband and I were scared of having a sick baby; a baby with kidney problems. The results of the amnio were normal, and our baby girl is very healthy. I’m now pregnant with our second child, so I told my OB/GYN about my first child and my husband’s family history.”

Gina is philosophical about her decision to have amniocentesis. “It’s hard to find an answer. You, your husband, and your baby are unique. It was my decision to take the risk. You want to be the best parent. You think about all the things that can go wrong. But you also need to think about how many kids are born healthy. I felt that I wanted to be prepared for anything.”

She described her first amniocentesis as “an amazing experience.” The doctor explained what he was doing throughout the procedure. “I’m thinking, ‘I’ve read about it. I’ve heard about it. But now here I am.’”

Gina observed the procedure on the monitor. “Watching the baby was more dramatic than the needle. After the procedure, I felt some cramping. I tried to stay still as much as possible.”

“I’m pregnant with our second child and my second amnio was a little painful, but nothing to complain about. You make the worst of it in your own mind.” The results of her second amniocentesis were also negative.

Learn more about Amniocentesis/Amniotic Fluid Testing.