Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

Amniocentesis is a test used to determine what?

1. The gender of the fetus

2. The genetic conditions of the fetus

3. The health status of the mother

4. The likelihood of preterm labor

The correct answer is: The genetic conditions of the fetus

Amniocentesis is primarily used as a diagnostic procedure to assess the genetic conditions of the fetus. During the procedure, amniotic fluid is sampled from the amniotic sac surrounding the developing fetus. This fluid contains cells shed by the fetus, which can be analyzed for genetic abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or other chromosomal conditions. While it is true that amniocentesis can also provide information about the gender of the fetus, this is not its primary purpose nor a reason for the procedure itself. The health status of the mother is more appropriately assessed through different clinical evaluations and tests. Additionally, amniocentesis does not typically relate to predicting the likelihood of preterm labor. Therefore, the use of amniocentesis is most relevant for determining genetic conditions, making it the correct answer in this context.