Understanding Amniocentesis: A Guide for Expectant Mothers

Question
I,am 28 years old and have one son who is 20 months old.  I'am currently 32 weeks pregnant.  I have been having heart palpatations, migraines and constant contractions for the past few days that are about a half of an hour apart.  Due to my current condition, my OB/GYN has suggested that I have a amniosentesis at 36-1/2 weeks to determine if my daughters lungs are developed.  If the lungs are developed, she would like to do the C-Section as soon as possible.  I had to have a C-Section with my son and was planning the same for this delivery.  Can you tell me a little bit about what to expect with the amniocetesis?  What should I expect and what are the risks?  I would just like a second opinion to see if you agree with my doctor.  Thank You.

Answer
If you are having contractions, you should try to drink plenty of fluids to stop the contractions. Drink like its going out of style. If you continue to have contractions, and they start to occur more than every 15 minutes, your doctor should stop them using tocolytic agents (MgSo4 or teerbutaline). The amniocentesis is done to see if the baby's lungs are mature enough for it to exist on its own. A long needle will be inserted into your uterus (through your abdomen) and some amniotic fluid will be removed (about three cc.) This will be tested for  maturity. If the baby's lungs are mature, you can safely have the cesarean section. If the lungs are not mature, you will have to wait another week before the cesarean section can be done, since usually the baby is not mature until 37-38 weeks gestation. The procedure will not be painful but the risks are trauma to the baby and loss of amniotic flid. However, I'm sure that the person doing the procedure has experience with the procedure and you should have no problems. It is a common procedure to test for fetal maturity. Good Luck.