Aims: To quantify the procedure-related complication rate after using modifi ed technique of amniocentesis with a 29-gauge (29-G) pencil-point needle.Methods: This is a prospective, descriptive study of 316 amniocenteses that were performed by means of atraumatic 29-G pencil-point needle under ultrasound control. Results: A total of 316 amniocenteses were observed through the postprocedural period. The median time needed to retrieve 15 mL of amniotic fl uid was 4 min. A total of 19 pregnancies were terminated after genetic testing. No case was regarded as procedure-related fetal loss. No other complications were observed. Seventeen children were born before 37 completed weeks of gestation and fi ve children had a birth weight < 2000 g. Conclusions:Amniocentesis with the 29-G atraumatic pencil-point needle seems to be a safe procedure with extremely low risk of complications and is a good alternative to the traditional 22-G Quincke needle.