Chorionic villus sampling is a test that is done in during early pregnancy to test for chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. It involves removing a few of the chorionic villi which make up most of the placenta. The placenta is the organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the baby during pregnancy. It also removes waste from the baby’s blood. The test is done during the 9th-13th weeks of pregnancy.
Chorionic villi contains valuable information about the baby’s genes. By testing chorionic villi, the doctor can find out if the baby has a chromosomal abnormality, like Down syndrome. The test can also detect genetic disorders, like cystic fibrosis. It cannot detect neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
This test may be considered when:
When the results of this testing are available, you will need to consider what you will do with the information. If there is a genetic disorder, further counseling can be helpful. Your doctor can help you understand the pros and cons of having this test, as well as talk to you about options after you know the results.
There are some risks with this test:
Chorionic villus sampling may not be recommended if you:
Since you may need to have a full bladder, drink plenty of fluids before the test. However, depending on how your placenta is positioned, you may be asked to urinate before the test. Talk with your doctor about specific ways to prepare for the test. Also, arrange to have someone drive you home from the hospital.
An ultrasound will be used to find the position of your placenta and take measurements to determine the age of the fetus. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of structures inside the body.
Your abdomen will be cleansed with antiseptic. Using the ultrasound images as a guide, a long, thin needle will be inserted through your abdominal wall. The needle will enter your uterus, avoiding the baby. You may feel cramping at this time. A tissue sample from your placenta will be withdrawn into a syringe through the needle.
Your baby's heart rate may be monitored using an ultrasound. You will be encouraged to rest when you are home. You will most likely be able to return to normal activities the next day. If you have a RH negative blood type, you will need to receive Rhgam to prevent a condition called isoimmunization.
30-45 minutes
You may feel some cramping during and after the test. You may also have a small amount of bleeding right after the test.
It may take 1-2 weeks to receive your test results. You will go over your results with your doctor or a genetic counselor.
If the test results are unclear, you may need to have another test called an amniocentesis. This is to help get a better understanding of the results.
If the results show that your baby has a genetic disorder or problems with chromosomes, you and your doctor will discuss how to manage your pregnancy. This may be a stressful time. Seeking support from your family, friends, and healthcare team can help.
It is important to monitor your recovery. Alert your doctor to any problems. If any of the following occur, call your doctor:
If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical help right away.
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
American Pregnancy Association
Canadian Women's Health Network
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS). American Pregnancy Association website. Available at: http://www.americanpregnancy.org/prenataltesting/cvs.html. Updated September 2, 2016. Accessed March 9, 2018.
Routine prenatal care. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T114252/Ro...ne-prenatal-care. Updated March 17, 2017. Accessed March 9, 2018.
Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Beverly Siegal, MD, FACOG
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.