Definition

Amniocentesis is a medical procedure where a small amount of amniotic fluid is taken from the uterus using a needle. This fluid is tested to check for genetic problems in the baby or to find out the baby's sex.

Example

The doctor recommended an amniocentesis to check for any genetic disorders in the unborn child.

Conversation

Have you heard about amniocentesis for pregnant women?

Yeah, I think it's a test to check for genetic issues, right?

Exactly! They take a sample of amniotic fluid for analysis.

That sounds interesting but a bit nerve-wracking too.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amniocentesis is formed from "amnion" (from Greek "amnion", meaning the fetal membrane) and "centesis" (from Greek "kentesis", meaning to puncture). The term refers to the procedure of puncturing the amniotic sac to obtain amniotic fluid for testing.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'amnion' as the protective membrane around a fetus and 'centesis' as the act of puncturing — this helps you remember that amniocentesis is a procedure that punctures this membrane to collect fluid.

Visually Confused Words