The primary factor which may affect the costs of amniocentesis is the location where the procedure is done. Certain areas are more expensive than others, and prices may even vary from clinic to clinic within the same town or city. Other factors may include insurance coverage or lack thereof and any additional tests which may be needed at the same time.
An amniocentesis, also called an amnio, is a test in which amniotic fluid is extracted from the uterus of a pregnant woman. This fluid can then be tested for various fetal abnormalities and conditions. Most women do not require this procedure. It is often done on those who have shown certain abnormalities or inconclusive results on an ultrasound.
Different areas have various prices for medical procedures and other living expenses. Geographical location and the medical center a person chooses can both easily affect the costs of amniocentesis. Most price ranges fall between $1500 and $2500 USD. Some centers may allow payment arrangements to be made for those who do not have insurance coverage. This procedure is generally not advised unless the patient's baby is at high risk for certain medical problems are complications.
Various insurance companies and medical centers have different views on this procedures, and these factors can also impact the overall costs of amniocentesis. For instance, women under 35 may not be covered under their insurance plans because the conditions the procedure detects are much more common in older women. Those who have shown fetal abnormalities using other tests may be covered. Some insurance companies may never cover them because of the controversial nature of the test. Amniocenteses does carry certain risks to the unborn child, and in some cases the conditions being tested for cannot be treated right away, so it may cause unduly stress on the pregnant woman.
Any additional tests being done may also affect the costs of amniocentesis. These can include ultrasounds and other follow-up tests to confirm a diagnosis. Sometimes more than one amniocentesis may also be needed, but this is uncommon. In many cases, testing can be performed instead of an amnio to determine the risk of certain conditions, and to determine whether doing more invasive tests is necessary or advised. Most times, a woman will need a written notice from her gynecologist confirming that an amniocentesis is warranted before the procedure will be performed.