What is the process of cordocentesis used for?

Cordocentesis, also known as fetal blood sampling, is a medical procedure utilized primarily to access fetal blood during pregnancy. By inserting a needle through the abdominal wall and into the umbilical cord, practitioners can either aspirate fetal blood for laboratory analysis or administer medications directly into the fetus's circulation. This procedure is particularly valuable for evaluating fetal anemia, infections, or genetic conditions, and it can also facilitate the treatment of certain fetal medical conditions before birth.

The other options relate to different medical contexts. Checking for maternal diabetes typically involves glucose tolerance testing rather than a procedure targeting the fetus. Diagnosing cervical cancer is generally conducted through Pap smears and biopsies rather than cordocentesis. Measuring amniotic fluid volume is usually accomplished through ultrasound, not by accessing fetal blood. Thus, cordocentesis is specifically focused on the retrieval and management of fetal blood information and treatment, confirming that it is indeed used for aspirating fetal blood or introducing medications.