Temporal changes in the utilization of amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis by women of advanced maternal age, 1976-1983.

Utilization of amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis because of the indication of advanced maternal age (greater than or equal to 35 years at delivery) was examined in the population of B.C. over an 8-year period (1976-1983). As of 1983, approximately one out of three eligible women (greater than or equal to 35 years at delivery) is having the test. In the older group (greater than or equal to 38 years at delivery) approximately one out of two eligible women is having the test. The data do not indicate that the proportion of eligible women having amniocentesis has reached a plateau; utilization is continuing to increase. It appears that prenatal diagnosis is an ethically acceptable alternative for a large proportion of the population.