The purpose of amniocentesis is primarily to:

Amniocentesis is a medical procedure used primarily for the purpose of checking for chromosomal abnormalities in a fetus. This test involves obtaining a sample of amniotic fluid, which contains fetal cells, and analyzing it for conditions such as Down syndrome or other genetic disorders. The ability to detect specific genetic issues at an early stage is crucial for expectant parents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding prenatal care.

While amniocentesis can also provide information on the sex of the baby, this is not its primary purpose. Similarly, it does not serve to rule out multiple births or check for gestational diabetes, as these conditions involve different diagnostic tests and assessments. Therefore, the focus of amniocentesis on chromosomal testing establishes it as an essential tool in prenatal diagnostics.