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Cordocentesis or fetal blood testing involves detecting fetal abnormalities by examining the blood from the fetus. This procedure is also known as Percutaneous Umbilical Cord Blood Sampling (PUBS).

Procedure to Conduct Fetal Blood Testing

Fetal blood testing is done using an advanced imaging ultrasound to locate the place or position where the umbilical cord is entering the placenta. Depending on this location, a needle is inserted through your abdomen and uterine wall into the umbilical cord. A small sample of blood is pulled out from the umbilical cord. The blood is then sent to a laboratory for testing and analysis.The results are generally available within 72 hours. The process is like amniocentesis, but the only difference is that instead of amniotic fluid, blood is retrieved.

Reasons For Conducting the Test

Fetal blood testing is generally done when the desired results are not acquired through amniocentesis. This test is done within 17 weeks of a pregnancy.

Fetal blood testing helps in detecting chromosomal abnormalities like blood abnormalities such as fetal hemolytic disease and Down syndrome. It also helps determine the following issues such as:

• Fetus malformations, if any
• Fetal infection
• Fetal anemia
• The mother’s fetal platelet count
• Isoimmunisation

Risks Involved

Just as with any other test, there are side effects and risks associated with fetal blood tests. Although fetal blood testing is not considered an unsafe procedure, there could be some possible complications. The most common and main risk in this procedure is miscarriage.

Other risks are:

• Blood loss caused by the puncture from the needle
• Fetal heart rate drop
• A possible infection
• Premature breakage of membranes
• Fever and chills
• Leakage of the amniotic fluid

If you notice any of the symptoms listed above, make sure you bring it to your doctor’s notice immediately without any delay.

It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with your health care provider before you undergo fetal blood testing. Please note that although this test is accurate in spotting the problem, it may not help in determining the severity of the problem. Also, this test does not help in identifying neural tube defects like amniocentesis.

The reasons to undergo this test may differ in from person to person, just at it may vary with physicians. If you plan to undergo this test, ensure that you get it done at a good, reputed place to avoid further complications