Children whose mothers had second trimester amniocentesis: follow up at school age.

OBJECTIVE

To explore potential long term consequences of second trimester amniocentesis.

DESIGN

Children exposed to second trimester amniocentesis have been followed prospectively from birth to school age and compared with children whose mothers declined the test.

SETTING

The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto.

SAMPLE

Eighty-six children exposed to amniocentesis and 44 children whose mothers declined the test.

INTERVENTIONS

Second trimester amniocentesis for the late maternal age indication.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Standardised tests of intelligence, academic achievement, speech articulation, visual-perceptual-motor ability and fine motor coordination were administered. Parents reported on child behaviour using standardised measures of behaviour problems, social competence, hyperactivity and temperament. Physical growth was also measured, and parents reported on child health.

RESULTS

Group differences were not observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Second trimester amniocentesis does not appear to compromise child development, behaviour, growth or health.