A Chorionic Villous Sampling (CVS) test is a genetic screening option, performed early in pregnancy, and provides detailed information about your baby’s chromosomes. Unlike Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), which analyses fetal DNA in your blood, CVS directly examines placental tissue for a wider range of conditions. A CVS test is invasive compared to NIPT test. However, if you have concerns about your baby’s genetic health due to advanced maternal age, abnormal screening results, family history, or multiple fetuses, a CVS test may offer valuable insights. Let’s explore what it entails.
Demystifying the Procedure: How is the CVS Test Done?
During a CVS prenatal test, a small sample of placental tissue is collected to analyse your baby’s chromosomes. This CVS test for pregnancy can be performed in two ways:
- Transabdominal: Ultrasound guidance directs a thin needle through your abdomen to reach the placenta.
- Transcervical: A thin catheter is inserted through your cervix to access the placenta.
Both methods are typically done between 11-14 weeks of pregnancy and involve minimal discomfort.
Transabdominal vs. Transcervical: Understanding the Two CVS Approaches
There are two main methods for performing a CVS pregnancy test:
1. Transabdominal:
- Preparation: Depending on the clinic, you may need to fast beforehand and fill your bladder for better ultrasound visualization.
- Procedure: Using ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is inserted through your abdomen to reach the placenta and collect a tissue sample.
- Discomfort: You may experience mild cramping during the procedure.
- Recovery: Rest is recommended after the test, but most women resume normal activities quickly.
2. Transcervical:
- Preparation: This method typically doesn’t require fasting, but your doctor may advise filling your bladder.
- Procedure: A thin catheter is inserted through your cervix to reach the placenta and collect tissue.
- Discomfort: This approach can be slightly more uncomfortable than the transabdominal method, but pain medication is rarely needed.
- Recovery: Similar to the transabdominal approach, rest is recommended after the procedure.
Precautions to be taken after the CVS test:
- Watch for signs of infection like fever or foul-smelling discharge.
- Avoid strenuous activity for a few days.
- Contact your doctor with any concerns about bleeding, cramping, or unusual symptoms.
Choosing between Transabdominal and Transcervical:
While both methods are generally safe, your doctor will recommend the most suitable approach based on your circ*mstances and health history. Consider discussing any concerns you have about CVS with your doctor to make an informed decision.
When is a CVS Test a Good Option?
Consulting a Fetal medicine clinic can help you determine if a CVS test during pregnancy is right for you. It’s often recommended if you have certain risk factors, like:
- Advanced Maternal Age: Increased risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.
- Abnormal Prenatal Screening Tests: Elevated risk is identified in tests like first-trimester screening or quad screening.
- Family History of Genetic Disorders If you or your partner have a known genetic condition, a CVS test can detect its presence in your baby.
- Multiple Foetuses For twin pregnancies or higher-order multiples, a CVS test can assess each foetus individually.
Beyond chromosomal abnormalities, CVS microarrays can also detect specific genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis or muscular dystrophy.
Decoding Your Results: What to Expect After a CVS Test
CVS test for pregnancy results typically arrive within 1-2 weeks. The high accuracy of the test provides valuable insight into your baby’s chromosomal makeup and potential genetic conditions. However, in rare cases, the results may be inconclusive. If this occurs, your Fetal medicine specialist might recommend further testing, like amniocentesis, for a more definitive diagnosis.
Weighing the Pros and Cons: Advantages and Risks of the CVS Test
While NIPT testing offers a non-invasive option for early pregnancy screening, the CVS test for pregnancy provides more definitive information. Compared to amniocentesis, done in the second trimester, CVS offers:
- Earlier results: Receive results within 1-2 weeks, allowing for quicker decision-making.
- A wider range of detection: Can identify a broader spectrum of genetic conditions beyond common chromosomal abnormalities.
However, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks associated with CVS, similar to amniocentesis:
- Miscarriage: Slightly increased risk compared to routine pregnancy.
- Bleeding and infection: Rare, but possible complications.
- Rh sensitisation: Further monitoring is necessary if the mother is Rh-negative and the baby is Rh-positive.
- Limb defects: Extremely rare, primarily associated with early CVS procedures.
Remember, these risks are relatively low, but discussing them thoroughly with your healthcare professional is essential before deciding if a CVS test is right for you.
Understanding Costs: Navigating the Financial Aspect of a CVS Test
It’s normal to be uncertain about the CVS test pregnancy cost. The cost of a CVS prenatal test can vary depending on factors like insurance coverage, location, and the specific facility. It’s generally higher than NIPT testing but can offer more comprehensive information. To get a clearer picture of CVS test cost, contacting your healthcare provider for specific estimates and coverage details is recommended.
Bottom Line
The CVS test is a valuable tool for assessing your baby’s chromosomal makeup and potential genetic conditions during pregnancy. While offering earlier results and a wider range of detection compared to some other options, it’s crucial to weigh the potential risks with your healthcare professional.
Ankuran Clinic understands the complexities of pregnancy and provides a supportive environment for informed decision-making. Our team of experienced professionals offers comprehensive consultations, advanced technology, and compassionate care throughout your journey.
