Question

Amniocentesis is banned in India because:

• A. It is not cost effective
• B. It is used for prenatal sex determination
• C. It is helpful in detecting the genetic disorders
• D. It is an invasive procedure and increases risk of abortions

Answer 1

The correct option is B It is used for prenatal sex determination

Amniocentesis is a medical procedure which is done in the 15-20 week of pregnancy. It is used to test for the presence of any genetic disorders like Down syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, sickle cell anaemia etc. Hence this procedure is invasive and has a small risk of miscarriage. It is a costly procedure.

Amniocentesis can also be used for prenatal sex determination which is misused by some people for the purpose of female foeticide. Hence, India has imposed a statutory ban on it.