Chorionic villus sampling

Chorionic villus sampling is done between weeks 11 and 13 of pregnancy. It is preceded by an ultrasound, which reveals whether the pregnancy has progressed normally, as well as the length of the pregnancy, the number of foetuses, and the placental location. You should arrive for your chorionic villus sampling with a full bladder. The procedure, usually conducted through the abdominal wall, feels similar to having a blood test or an injection. Afterwards the mother can resume normal activity and return to work.

Chorionic villus sampling examines rapidly dividing foetal cells taken from the placenta. The results of the chromosome test are available within 1-2 weeks, approximately one month faster than those of amniocentesis.

Does chorionic villus sampling involve risks?

Miscarriages are common in early pregnancy: 4.5% of pregnancies end in miscarriage even in week 10. Chorionic villus sampling carries a 0.5-1% miscarriage rate. On very rare occasions an amniocentesis is required to confirm the results of the chromosome test.

Ultrasound
NIPT
Amniocentesis