Which of the following techniques makes use of amniotic fluid for the…

The correct answer is Option (3) → Amniocentesis

Amniotic fluid is the fluid that surrounds the developing foetus inside the mother. Some disorders of the foetus can be found before birth by testing this fluid. In amniocentesis, a little amniotic fluid is taken out, and the foetal cells and dissolved substances in it are studied. This shows genetic disorders such as Down’s syndrome. Because the test also shows the sex of the foetus, its use for sex determination is banned by law in India.

Option (1) Ultrasound — Incorrect. Ultrasound uses sound waves to make a picture of the foetus on a screen. It looks at the foetus from outside and does not take out any amniotic fluid.

Option (2) MRI — Incorrect. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses strong magnetic fields to make pictures of the inside of the body. It is an imaging method and does not use amniotic fluid.

Option (3) Amniocentesis — Correct. It is the only option that takes out and tests the amniotic fluid. The cells of the foetus floating in the fluid are checked for chromosomal and genetic disorders.

NCERT Extract:
Reproductive Health – Problems and Strategies – “… Statutory ban on amniocentesis for sex-determination to legally check increasing menace of female foeticides, massive child immunisation, etc., are some programmes that merit mention in this connection. In aminocentesis some of the amniotic fluid of the developing foetus is taken to analyse the fetal cells and dissolved substances. This procedure is used to test for the presence of certain genetic disorders such as, down syndrome, haemoplilia, sickle-cell anemia, etc., determine the survivability of the foetus.”