Introduction
CVS test or Chorionic Villus Sampling test is a prenatal test to detect the genetic and chromosomal abnormalities in a growing fetus. Modern technology has brought a revolution in the medical field. Several advanced tests make it possible to know about the complications during pregnancy. This blog involves benefits, potential risk factors, and other necessary details related to this test.
What is the CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) test?
CVS is a test performed during 12 to 15 weeks of pregnancy. The procedure involves collecting a sample of tissue from the placenta and analyzing it to detect genetic issues in the unborn baby in the womb. CVS is the most reliable and accurate test, although it carries some risk factors.
Reasons behind the CVS test
CVS test is not mandatory during your pregnancy. If your health care provider detects any issues or risk factors during a pregnancy ultrasound or noninvasive prenatal screening. In the following situation, CVS is recommended:
- If you already have a baby having genetic abnormalities.
- Higher risk has been detected in the previous ultrasound test of a baby with a Genetic condition.
- If your age is 35 or more on your due date.
- Having a family history of a genetic disorder.
How does CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) testing work?
There are two ways of performing a CVS test by your health care provider. The procedures are discussed here.
- Transcervical
In this process, the test is performed through your vagina. Your health care provider inserts a smooth duckbill-shaped device called a speculum through your vagina to widen your vagina walls. Then he inserts a thin plastic tube into the cervix. With the help of ultrasound, the specialist will move the tube to the placenta and take a small sample of villi.
- Transabdominal
It is an abdominal method of the CVS test. By using ultrasound, your health care provider will insert a needle into your abdomen to the placenta to collect cells from the placenta.
- Duration
Both the Transcervical and Transabdominal methods of CVS test require less than 30 minutes to perform.
Read More: Amniocentesis: Purpose, Procedure, and Risk Factors
What are the benefits of CVS?
During pregnancy, the CVS or Chorionic Villus Sampling test offers several important information about the developing fetus. The benefits of this test have been discussed in the following points:
- High accuracy
The Chorionic Villus Sampling test provides accurate information about the developing fetus. With a high accuracy rate, this test is essential to make informed decisions during pregnancy.
- Early detection
CVS test is done in 12 to 15 weeks of pregnancy, which is earlier than Amniocentesis. This early detection is beneficial to take the initiative for necessary treatment.
- Important decision-making
Based on the Chorionic Villus Sampling test report, a couple can decide on their pregnancy. They can also be prepared for other options or make a plan for the care of the child who needs special care.
- Reduce stress
Detecting a high risk of having a baby with a Genetic condition causes anxiety and stress for a couple. Chorionic Villus Sampling test offers accurate diagnostic information about the fetus that is beneficial to mitigate stress and provide a sense of relief.
- Better family planning
For couples who have a child with chromosomal abnormalities or a genetic disorder, the CVS test is essential for them to decide on future pregnancy. It is also helpful as it provides important information to make future family planning and can bring necessary changes in their lifestyle.
What are the risks of CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling)?
After the test, you may feel cramping and soreness in your belly. It is a painless test. And vaginal spotting is normal in this case. Though the test is safe, there are some potential risks involved,
- Miscarriage – After a CVS test, the risk of miscarriage is less than 1%.
- Limb deformity – If the CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) test is done after 10 weeks of pregnancy, there can be a risk of limb deformity in the newborn baby.
- Bleeding – Light bleeding is normal in the CVS test, but in some cases, there is a risk of heavy bleeding from the vagina.
- Infection – There is a small risk of infection after the CVS test. In rare cases, the issue of infection can be found.
- Rh sensitization – If the mother has Rh-positive blood and the baby carries Rh-negative blood, the blood may mix after the CVS test.
- Leakage of amniotic fluid – CVS may lead to leakage of amniotic fluid. This leakage causes several complications during pregnancy.
Fetal Imaging Institute is one of the most trusted pregnancy care centres in North Kolkata, Belgharia, and offers complete prenatal care to the future mother and the unborn baby. It is popular for its standard test reports, medical and technical expertise, and professional care in complicated pregnancies. Here, we offer advanced equipment and laboratory support to evaluate the condition of the developing fetus.
We emphasize high-quality treatment and care for high-risk pregnancies. Here we offer easy and flexible appointments with experienced doctors, instant report delivery, professional care, and mental support through counseling throughout the journey of your pregnancy.
Contact us today to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Conclusion
CVS test is significant to evaluate the condition of a growing fetus. It provides necessary information about the unborn baby having a Genetic disorder and chromosomal abnormalities. This test is recommended if there is any issue detected in a pregnancy ultrasound. This prenatal diagnosis test is beneficial to detect the genetic issue at an early stage of pregnancy and facilitates making necessary decisions for future planning. There are several risk factors, including miscarriage. The CVS test is essential to have a clear concept about the condition of the baby in the womb with a genetic condition and to take necessary steps to cope with the situation. Consulting with health care professionals in a reputed diagnostic institute can be effective to have a healthy as well as stress-free pregnancy. At the diagnostic centers, you can get a trusted treatment plan, a personalised health care solution, and affordable services as per your needs.
Visit at: APARTMENT, 9, 803/1, SARADA, 4, Feeder Rd, Belghoria, Kolkata, West Bengal 700056