Question

Comment upon amniocentesis.

Hint:

Amniocentesis = prenatal diagnostic test for genetic diseases, not for sex determination (illegal in India under PCPNDT Act).

Answer 1

Definition: Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic technique in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is withdrawn from the uterus of a pregnant woman using a hollow needle, under ultrasound guidance. Purpose of Amniocentesis: \[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{To detect chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome, Turner syndrome).} \\ \bullet & \text{To diagnose genetic disorders (e.g., sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis).} \\ \bullet & \text{To determine fetal sex and detect sex-linked disorders.} \\ \bullet & \text{To study lung maturity in late pregnancy.} \\ \end{array}\] Misuse of Amniocentesis: - In some countries, including India, amniocentesis was misused for female feticide by determining the sex of the fetus. - This led to a decline in the female child ratio. Legal Aspect in India: - The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994 strictly prohibits the misuse of amniocentesis for sex determination. - It can only be used for detecting genetic and chromosomal abnormalities. Conclusion: Amniocentesis is a valuable medical tool when used ethically for detecting genetic diseases, but its misuse for sex determination is illegal and punishable.