Diagnostic Amniocentesis in Abu Dhabi

Amniocentesis in Abu Dhabi obtains a small amniotic-fluid sample from 15 completed weeks under continuous ultrasound guidance at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital. The laboratory test selected determines which chromosomal, genetic, or infectious question can be answered and the limitations of the result.

Who This Page is For

Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.

Pregnant Patient

Mothers at 15+ weeks who need diagnostic testing for a specific chromosomal, genetic, or infectious question.

Referring Doctor

Obstetricians referring patients with high-risk genetic screens, structural abnormalities, or suspected fetal infections.

Abnormal Screening

Patients with high-risk NIPT, elevated combined screening risk, or specific ultrasound anomalies.

Second Opinion

Parents wanting to discuss safety profiles, diagnostic details, and procedure alternatives with MFM experts.

When to see MFM

High-risk NIPT or combined screening result.
Structural abnormalities detected on an anomaly scan.
History of prior pregnancy with a genetic abnormality.
Known parental genetic carrier status or genetic translocation.
Suspected fetal viral or parasitic infection requiring PCR confirmation.

What we do

Detailed pre-procedure ultrasound scan to evaluate fetal position and placenta.
Sterile transabdominal amniotic fluid sampling under continuous, real-time ultrasound guidance.
QF-PCR for selected common aneuploidies when indicated.
Chromosomal microarray, targeted molecular testing, or exome sequencing when clinically indicated after counselling.

What happens during the visit

1

Counseling session to review risks, benefits, and diagnostic pathways.

2

Sterile preparation of the abdomen and discussion of analgesia according to clinical practice and patient preference.

3

Insertion of a fine needle under direct, continuous ultrasound visualization.

4

Post-procedure rest and clinical guidance on recovery.

When urgent referral is needed

  • Leakage of amniotic fluid or vaginal bleeding.
  • Severe cramping or pelvic pain.
  • Fever or chills post-procedure.

Where the service is available

Available at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi. We receive patients from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, and other emirates.

Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM

Individual counselling about procedure-related risks, benefits, alternatives, and the limitations of the selected laboratory test.
Continuous ultrasound guidance throughout sampling.
Coordination with genetics and pathology laboratories appropriate to the requested analysis.
Direct consultation with subspecialists to interpret complex genetic results.

Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital

Appointments & Inquiries

800 2000

Clinical Working Hours

Clinic times vary by location and consultant. Please confirm when booking via 800 2000.

Specialists Available

Fellowship-trained, internationally recognized consultants offering evidence-based precision care.

Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG

Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG

Consultant in Fetal & Maternal Medicine

Over three decades of clinical excellence, serving as Chair of Fetal Medicine at Corniche Hospital from 2014-2025.

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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG

Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG

Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology, Consultant Maternal Fetal Medicine

Former Department Chair of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Corniche Hospital with immense experience leading tertiary maternity services.

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Dr. Bernard Nasr

Dr. Bernard Nasr

Consultant Obstetrics/Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine

French-trained MFM expert proficient in invasive therapeutic procedures and multiple pregnancy complications.

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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega

Dr. Marija Hadji Lega

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, Associate Professor

Internationally trained specialist with 25+ years of clinical experience, renowned for advanced fetal neurology and cardiology.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.

Most patients report only mild pressure or discomfort, similar to a blood test. It takes less than two minutes to perform.

The additional procedure-related risk is low but not zero. Estimates vary with the clinical population, operator, technique, and study design; your consultant will discuss the most relevant estimate for your situation.

Amniocentesis is generally performed from 15 completed weeks when there is an appropriate clinical indication.

Turnaround depends on the laboratory and the analysis selected. The expected time for rapid aneuploidy testing, microarray, targeted testing, or exome sequencing is confirmed during counselling.

No. Amniocentesis provides a sample; the selected laboratory test answers a defined question and has specific limitations. Ultrasound and other assessments remain necessary for structural and developmental conditions.

You will receive individualized aftercare instructions and advice about symptoms that require urgent medical review. Routine activity guidance may vary with the clinical circumstances.

Getting Here & Access

Our Abu Dhabi hub is at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road), a central location with dedicated on-site parking and step-free access. It is an easy drive from Khalifa City, Al Reem Island, Al Reef, Yas Island, Saadiyat and Mussafah, and roughly 60–75 minutes from Dubai via the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road). Families travelling from Al Ain or the Western Region are seen by prior appointment so scans and consultations are completed in a single visit.

Insurance & Coverage

We work with major UAE insurers including Daman — including Thiqa and Daman Enhanced — as well as ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation requirements vary by plan, so our team confirms your eligibility and arranges any approvals before your appointment. Self-pay packages are also available.

Areas We Serve

Khalifa CityAl Reem IslandAl ReefYas IslandSaadiyat IslandMussafahAl RahaMohammed Bin Zayed CityAl BateenAl Shamkha

Book a Clinical Consultation

Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.

Medical Content Reviewed by: Dr. Leanne Bricker (MFM Consultant)
Last updated: August 2026