Having an amniocentesis? Here are instructions on what you need to before, during, and after the procedure.
Call your doctor any time you are concerned and specifically if you experience any of the following:
· If you just feel ill in any way.
· If you have abdominal or back pain worse than menstrual cramps.
· If you have rhythmic lower-abdominal pain.
· If you have vaginal bleeding.
· If there is any fluid or unusual discharge from the vagina.
· If there is foul-smelling vaginal discharge
· If you feel hot, take your temperature. Call your doctor if your temperature is above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Centigrade).
On the day of the procedure:
· You can eat and drink normally.
· You can shower or take a bath.
· You should not work.
· Relax for the rest of the day, sitting or lying down.
· You should not drive a car, not exercise, no heavy lifting, no long walks, no housework, no cooking or shopping, no sexual intercourse.
· If you have children at home, have someone else take care of them for the rest of the day.
· Drink at least four large glasses (8 oz. each) of water or juice during the remainder of the day. Empty your bladder every 1-2 hours.
· It's normal to experience a little pain or burning in the skin where the needle entered.
· It is normal to experience some lower abdominal, pelvic, or back pain (cramping, heaviness, pressure, discomfort). This should be gone by the following morning.
· You may take 1-2 tablets regular strength Tylenol (acetaminophen) every 4-6 hours if needed.
On the day after the procedure:
· If you feel well, you may return to work. There is nothing wrong with taking another day off.
· Gentle walking is OK.
For three days after the procedure (the day of the procedure and the two following days):
· Don't do any strenuous exercise
· Don't lift anything heavy
· Long-distance travel should be avoided
SEE INSTRUCTIONS ABOVE FOR WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR