CVS Overview
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is a prenatal diagnostic test that is performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. It is a procedure that involves removing a small sample of tissue from the placenta, which is then analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. If the IVF embryo already had PGT testing performed your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of performing a CVS test given your medical history and family history.
The test performed around weeks 10-13 of pregnancy which is earlier than an amniocentesis.
Benefits
CVS can yield valuable information about the health of the developing fetus.
The test can detect chromosomal abnormalities such including:
- Down Syndrome
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Tay-Sachs Disease
- Sickle cell anemia
- Trisomy 18.
The results of this test can be used to help parents make informed decisions about the pregnancy and to prepare for the care of a child with special needs. The test results are very accurate at around 99%.
Risks
The risk of miscarriage for CVS and amniocentesis are roughly the same. The miscarriage risk with CVS is about 1 in 300-500.
References
- Salomon LJ, Sotiriadis A, Wulff CB, Odibo A, Akolekar R. Risk of miscarriage following amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling: systematic review of literature and updated meta-analysis. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol. 2019 Oct;54(4):442-451. doi: 10.1002/uog.20353. Epub 2019 Sep 6. PMID: 31124209.
- Clevland Clinic - Chorionic Villus Sampling for Prenatal Diagnosis
- ACOG.org - Prenatal Genetic Diagnostic Tests