How is chorionic villus sampling performed?
1 Answer
CVS can be done through the cervix (transcervical) or through your belly (transabdominal).
Miscarriage rates are slightly higher when the test is done through the cervix.
The transcervical procedure is performed by inserting a thin plastic tube through the vagina and cervix to reach the placenta.
The provider uses ultrasound images to help guide the tube into the best area and then removes a small sample of chorionic villus tissue.
The transabdominal procedure is performed by inserting a needle through the abdomen and uterus and into the placenta. A small amount of tissue is drawn into the syringe.
The sample (in either case) is placed in a dish and evaluated in a laboratory. Test results take about 2 weeks.
The test is used to identify any genetic disease in your unborn baby. It can be done sooner in pregnancy than amniocentesis.
This test can help detect more than 200 disorders. Abnormal results may be due to a number of different genetic conditions, including Down syndrome, Hemoglobinopathies (bleeding disorders) or Tay-Sachs disease.
