Final answer:
Amniocentesis is a procedure to analyze the genetic health of a baby. It may be recommended for women under 35 with a family history of a genetic disorder, concerns about chromosomal abnormalities, or abnormal results in other prenatal tests. It helps detect conditions like Down syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Amniocentesis is a procedure in which a small amount of amniotic fluid is drawn out of a pregnant woman's abdomen and analyzed to assess the genetic health of the baby. A doctor might recommend amniocentesis for a woman under age 35 if she has a family history of a genetic disorder, if there is a concern about the baby having a chromosomal abnormality, or if there are abnormalities found in other prenatal tests. The procedure can help detect conditions like Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and spina bifida.