Pregnancy loss rates following second trimester genetic amniocentesis.
Data from 3,953 consecutive second trimester genetic amniocenteses were analysed to determine pregnancy loss rates up to 6 weeks after the procedure. Information was prospectively collected on a cohort of 3,685 women in 3,896 singleton and 50 twin pregnancies, from 2 operating sites in Perth, Western Australia, using 9 operators over the 6-year period, 1989 to 1995. Complete information regarding pregnancy outcome was obtained for 3,643 of the 3,685 women (98.9%). There were 27 identified singletons and 1 set of twins lost within 6 weeks following amniocentesis. The overall pregnancy loss rate in this cohort was 29 of 3,911 (0.74%). The pregnancy loss rate associated with genetic amniocentesis is not excessive in comparison to the calculated background pregnancy loss rate of 1%, and it is suggested that each prenatal diagnostic team should determine their own complication rates for the purpose of counselling prior to amniocentesis.
Reid
K P
KP
Department of Ultrasound, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Subiaco, Western Australia.
Gurrin
L C
LC
Dickinson
J E
JE
Newnham
J P
JP
Phillips
J M
JM
D000022:Abortion, Spontaneous / Q000209:etiology*; D000328:Adult; D000649:Amniocentesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D011247:Pregnancy; D011262:Pregnancy Trimester, Second; D011446:Prospective Studies