What is a Cordocentesis?

Cordocentesis, also known as percutaneous umbilical blood sampling, is an invasive prenatal diagnostic test to detect congenital and blood anomalies in the fetus. This test consists of performing a puncture in the umbilical cord of the fetus to obtain its blood and analyze it.

Normally, Cordocentesis is performed between the 18th and 23rd week of pregnancy, although it can also be performed at a later time.

As with any diagnostic technique, this invasive prenatal test can pose a risk to the mother and fetus. The main danger of Cordocentesis is the possibility of spontaneous miscarriage. For this reason, it is a diagnostic method rarely used at present.