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What risks are associated with amniocentesis?

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Close-up of a home pregnancy test device showing a blue plus sign in the result window, indicating a positive result for pregnancy. — pregnancy Devices for individual use at home detect pregnancy by measuring levels of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in urine.

Amniocentesis is an invasive diagnostic procedure involving the insertion of a needle through the abdominal wall and uterus to collect amniotic fluid for analysis. While generally regarded as a safe medical practice, it carries certain risks due to its invasive nature.123

The most significant risk associated with amniocentesis is fetal loss (miscarriage), which can occur as a result of the procedure, potentially due to disruption of the placenta. Other complications that may arise include:423

Cramping2
Infection2

Because amniocentesis is an invasive diagnostic test, it is typically recommended only when there are specific risk factors—such as advanced maternal age or abnormal results from noninvasive screening tests—that warrant further investigation. Parents considering this procedure may choose to consult with a genetic counselor to better understand the balance between the diagnostic benefits and the potential risks involved.42