[Gynecological aspects of prenatal diagnosis of congenital anomalies (author's transl)].

In the light of our own observations, the technique of amniotic fluid puncture in early pregnancy is described, the risk of the procedure to the mother and child is set forth and further responsibilities are explained. Two indication groups predominate: pregnant women of older maternity age and women who have already given birth to a child presenting Down's syndrome. As can be derived from the figures, all gynecologists nowadays must include the possibilities of prenatal recognition of congenital anomalies in family planning and maternity care. An anomaly can be excluded in about 95% of potential genetic risk pregnancies.