What does CVS test detect?

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a prenatal test used to detect birth defects, genetic diseases, and other problems during pregnancy. During the test, a small sample of cells (called chorionic villi) is taken from the placenta where it attaches to the wall of the uterus.

How is CVS test done?

During chorionic villus sampling, a thin tube is guided through the cervix (shown above) or a needle is inserted into the uterus to remove a sample of chorionic villus cells from the placenta. These cells contain a baby’s genetic information.

Is CVS test painful?

CVS is usually described as being uncomfortable, rather than painful. In most cases, an injection of local anaesthetic will be given before transabdominal CVS to numb the area where the needle is inserted, but you may have a sore tummy afterwards. Transcervical CVS feels similar to a cervical screening test.

What chromosomal abnormalities does CVS test for?

What kind of problems does CVS diagnose? Like amniocentesis, CVS can identify: Nearly all chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome, trisomy 13, trisomy 18, and sex chromosome abnormalities (such as Turner syndrome). The test can diagnose these conditions, but it can’t measure their severity.

Is CVS better than amniocentesis?

When testing for chromosomal abnormalities resulting from advanced maternal age, CVS may be more acceptable than amniocentesis to some women because of the psychological and medical advantages provided by CVS through earlier diagnosis of abnormalities.

How accurate is a CVS test?

CVS is estimated to be about accurate in 99 cases out of 100. However, it cannot test for every birth defect, and it may not give conclusive results. In about 1 in every 100 cases, the results of CVS cannot be completely certain that the chromosomes in the fetus are normal.

Is CVS test necessary?

CVS isn’t a routine test. But your doctor may recommend it if your chances of having a baby with a genetic condition or birth defect are higher than average. Even though CVS can find certain problems, it can’t guarantee that your baby will be born healthy. No test can do that.

What hurts more CVS or amnio?

Amniocentesis can detect certain things that CVS can’t, including neural tube defects like spina bifida, birth defects and Rh incompatibility. Possible risks, like miscarriage, are slightly higher for CVS, and the procedure is slightly more painful.

Does a CVS test tell gender?

CVS can diagnose chromosomal abnormalities that cause conditions like Down syndrome, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, and Tay Sachs disease. It does not diagnose neural tube defects. Because the procedure examines genetic material, it can tell you the gender of the fetus.

When should CVS testing be done?

CVS is usually done between the 10th and 12th weeks of pregnancy. Unlike amniocentesis (another type of prenatal test), CVS does not provide information on neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.

Why do doctors more often recommend amniocentesis?

Amniocentesis or CVS is done when there is an increased risk that the baby may have genetic disorders or birth defects. It’s often done if: You are 35 years of age or older by the time your baby is due. You have an increased risk of having a baby with a chromosome abnormality.

How long is the risk of miscarriage after CVS?

Miscarriage. CVS can cause miscarriage, which is the loss of a pregnancy in the first 23 weeks. The chance of miscarrying after CVS is up to 1 in 100. This means that 1 in100 pregnancies will miscarry after having CVS.