During the FBS procedure, blood is drawn from the umbilical cord of the foetus to test for possible health conditions and complications. Learn more here about fetal blood sampling risks.
What Is Fetal Blood Sampling (FBS Test)?
During an FBS test, your obstetrician will draw blood from the umbilical cord of the foetus to test for any possible complications to your pregnancy.
The FBS procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and takes only a few minutes. The obstetrician will insert a thin hollow needle through the mother's abdomen into the umbilical cord, using ultrasound to guide the needle during the procedure and avoid harming the unborn child.
The needle may cause some pain when it penetrates the uterus, but the pain should not last long and should not hurt more than an injection into any other part of the body.
After the foetal blood has been withdrawn, the removal of the needle should cause no further discomfort. The fluid is then sent to the laboratory for special tests.
For more information on fetal blood sampling risks and whether you might require testing, please speak to your obstetrician.
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