Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a diagnostic test usually performed between 10 and 13 weeks of the pregnancy. Using high resolution ultrasound for guidance the physician will either insert a needle through your abdomen into the placenta or will insert a small catheter through the Cervix into the placenta (depending on the location of the placenta). A small sample of chorionic villi (cells from the placenta) are removed and tested for chromosomes or any special biochemical or DNA testing as indicated (for example, in the case of Tay-Sachs disease).

Chorionic villus sampling is done earlier in the pregnancy than amniocentesis, so results are returned sooner. However, since no amniotic fluid is removed it cannot screen for neural tube defects. This can be done with a simple blood test in the second trimester (AFP) and by ultrasound.

Genetic counseling is recommended to anyone considering chorionic villus sampling or any prenatal testing.

Some of the most common reasons patients consider undergoing chorionic villus sampling are:

• Age 35 or older at delivery
• A previous child with a chromosome abnormality or metabolic disorder
• One or both parents carry a chromosome translocation (rearrangement) or a genetic disease (Tay-Sachs, sickle cell anemia, and many others for which we have genetic testing
available)
• An abnormal first trimester screen indicating increased risk for chromosome problems
• Finding of fetal abnormality on ultrasound

In general, you should be able to resume most daily activities after chorionic villus sampling. You may return to work, as long as your job does not require excessive physical activity. The following general guidelines will help with follow-up care:

• For 5 to 7 days after your procedure:
  
  • Stay off your feet as much as possible
  • No lifting over 10 pounds
  • No exercise or strenuous activities
  • No sexual intercourse or sexual activity
  • Drink extra fluid
  • If one or more of the following occur, please let us know before the procedure: constipation, excessive sneezing, coughing.
  • Additional instructions for women having transcervical chorionic villus sampling:
    • No douching
    • No use of tampons
    • No tub baths; showers are fine
• Commonly experienced symptoms after chorionic villus sampling:
  
  • Spotting or brownish discharge with transcervical chorionic villus sampling
  • Minor bruising or soreness at the area of insertion with transabdominal chorionic villus sampling
  • Mild cramping for 24 to 48 hours (if you wish, you may take Tylenol for this discomfort)
• Complications to watch for:
  
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Foul smelling discharge, passage of clear fluid or tissue from the vagina
  • Heavy cramping
  • Fever or Chills
• If complications occur:
  
  • Bed rest is recommended
  • Call your obstetrician first. Your obstetrician may choose to contact us directly, or you may feel free to call our office and speak with our nurse at 301-279-6060.
• Your results:
  
  • Will be ready 10 to 14 days following your chorionic villus sampling. Results occasionally take longer. If you do not have your results in fourteen days from the procedure, feel free to contact us. When calling, please be sure to leave phone numbers where you can be reached late in the day.