Post-Procedure Instructions

Our nurses will provide you with detailed instructions after you have a CVS or amniocentesis. They will let you know what is normal and what is not normal to experience after one of these procedures. They will also provide you with a set of instructions for the days following the procedure. You are also given a paper copy of these instructions to take home with you. If you experience symptoms that are unusual or concerning, you may reach an advice nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days by calling us at 415-600-6400.

What to Expect After CVS


• After the procedure, you should go home to rest for about two (2) hours. Some women experience spotting, bleeding, or cramping.

• You may drive yourself home after a CVS procedure.

• Generally, women may resume some of their regular activities (such as work in an office setting) 24 hours after the CVS procedure. We advise the following activity limitations after a CVS procedure:
- No lifting over 15 pounds for 24 hours.
- No strenuous exercise or strenuous work activity for 72 hours.
- No air travel for 72 hours.
- No intercourse for 24 hours after transabdominal CVS and no intercourse for 72 hours after transcervical CVS.

Call (415) 600-6400 if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Severe cramping. It is normal to experience some cramping, which usually resolves in a few hours.
• Contractions or abdominal pain.
• Vaginal bleeding or leaking that does not stop. It is normal to have some spotting or light bleeding (less than a menstrual period). The treatment for these symptoms is bed rest.
• Fever of 100.4°F or 38°C.
• Any changes with your pregnancy that are of concern.

What to Expect After Amniocentesis


• After the procedure, you should go home to rest for about 2 hours. You will be given a detailed instruction sheet on what to expect following an amniocentesis.

• You may drive yourself home after an amniocentesis procedure.

• Generally, women may resume their regular activities the day after the amniocentesis procedure. We advise the following activity limitations after an amniocentesis:
- No lifting over 15 pounds for 24 hours.
- No strenuous exercise or strenuous work activity for 72 hours.
- No air travel for 72 hours.
- No intercourse for 24 hours.

• Spotting, cramping and/or light bleeding (less than a menstrual period) may occur.

Call (415) 600-6400 if you experience any of the following symptoms:
• Severe cramping. It is normal to experience some cramping, which usually resolves in a few hours.
• Contractions or abdominal pain.
• Vaginal discharge (bloody/liquid) that does not stop. It is normal to have some small leaking of fluid, spotting, or bleeding (less than a menstrual period). The treatment for these symptoms is bed rest.
• Fever of 100.4°F or 38°C.
• Any changes with your pregnancy that are of concern.