Chorionic villus sampling

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Chorionic villus sampling

Chorionic villus sampling - series

The antiseptic cleansing solution will feel cold initially and may irritate your skin if it is not removed after the procedure. Some people are allergic to Betadine. Notify your health care provider if you are allergic to Betadine or if you have any other allergies.

Patients report that the actual sampling feels similar to a Pap smear, where there is some discomfort and a feeling of pressure. There may be a small amount of bleeding following the procedure.

An obstetrician can perform this procedure in about 5 minutes, after the preparation.

This test is a way of detecting congenital (present from before birth) defects. The sample is used to study the DNA, chromosomes, and enzymes of the fetus and can be done earlier than amniocentesis, about 10 to 12 weeks after your last menstrual period.

Test results from a CVS are obtained within 1 to 2 weeks, whereas amniocentesis results may take as long as a month. Earlier diagnosis of congenital defects may relieve some of the concerns of your family, especially if a therapeutic abortion is under consideration.

Chorionic villus sampling does not detect neural tube defects. If neural tube defects or Rh incompatibility are a concern, an amniocentesis will be performed.

Review Date: 09/19/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.