Serious, infrequent. Amniocentesis involves inserting a long needle through the mom's abdominal wall, uterus, amniotic sac to obtain fluid. Risks include bleeding, infection, leaking of amniotic fluid, nicking placenta or cord or fetus, pregnancy loss. Those are minimized if expert performs ultrasound while experienced md inserts needle because there are risks, couple should weigh those against benefits of amnio info.
Amniocentesis risks. The risks from amniocentesis are fairly minimal. The risks include bleeding, infection, rupture of membranes, damage to the fetus, and possible miscarriage (one in 600 to 800 procedures). The baseline risk of miscarriage is at least one or two percent in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy - even with no procedures. If this procedure is indicated for you - your doctor will fully discuss the risks.