| pubmed-article:2526936 | pubmed:abstractText | After undergoing amniocentesis and delivering their child 504 women were asked by questionnaire for their attitude towards and their experience of pregnancy and amniocentesis. The majority of the women reported that they experienced their decision to utilise amniocentesis as largely unproblematic. In most cases they had already come to a decision before genetic counselling resulting from talking things over with their partner and their gynaecologist. The decision was mostly based on risk assessment and less by considerations of potential consequences of the operation. On the other hand, nearly one-quarter of the respondents found it difficult to decide on their line of action. Their decision was taken more often during or after genetic counselling, and their partner disagreed more frequently with amniocentesis. In this group of women there were more respondents who refused an induced abortion if their child was severely handicapped, than in the group without difficulties with their decision. Disadvantages, consequences of the operation, and conflicts stemming from the social environment of the expectant woman were mentioned as additional reasons for difficulties in arriving at a decision. Potential implications for genetic counselling practice are discussed. | lld:pubmed |
