CVS
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is offered to pregnant women at risk of having a baby with a serious genetic disorder. It will diagnose any problems at an early stage.
CVS isn't routinely offered to all women during pregnancy. It's offered if your test results or medical or family history suggest you have an increased chance of having a baby with a genetic disorder.
You don't have to have the test if it's offered it's up toyou to decide whether you want it.
CVS can be used to diagnose a number of serious genetic disorders, including:
CVS cannot detect neural tube defects. These are birth defects affecting the brain and the spinal cord, such as spina bifida , which can usually be detectedwith an ultrasound scan .
If you're offered CVS,ask your doctor or midwife what the procedure involves and whatthe risks and benefits are before deciding whether to haveit.
You mayalso find it helpful to contact a support group, such as Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) . ARC is a charity that offers information, advice and support on all issues related to screening during pregnancy.
The test will usually tell you whether your baby will beborn with any of the genetic conditions that were tested for.
If no problem is found, it may be reassuring. A result showing that a genetic condition was detected will give you plenty of time to decide how you want to proceed with your pregnancy. Read about the results of CVS for more information.
There is a1-2% chance you could have a miscarriage after the procedure. You may feel this risk outweighs the potential benefits of the test. You maychoose to have an alternative test called amniocentesis later in yourpregnancy instead, oryou might just want to find out when your baby is born.
Read about why chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is offered, how it's carried out, and what the benefits and risks are.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is offered to pregnant women at risk of having a baby with a serious genetic disorder. It will diagnose any problems at an early stage.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) involves taking a sample of cells from the tissue of the placenta (the 'chorionic villi').
After chorionic villus sampling (CVS) has been carried out, the sample of cells will be sent to a laboratory to be tested.
Before you decide to have chorionic villus sampling (CVS), you'll be told about the risks and possible complications.