As a would-be-mother it is evident that you want your baby to healthy and free from any sort of abnormality and disorders. To make sure that your baby is fit, the Chorionic Villus Sampling test is advised by your physician.

The Chorionic Villus Sampling is used to locate genetic and chromosome disorders in the growing fetus. It is especially carried out if the family has a history of medical problems. Abnormalities in the chromosome and other genetic disorders can be easily detected through this test.

In this test, the chorionic villus cells that are located at the point where the placenta is attached to the walls of the uterus is analyzed. The cells are collected in either of the two ways:

Transabdominal – In this method, a thin and long needle is guided with the help of ultrasound to the placenta via the abdomen. With the help of the needle a sample is carefully collected.

Transcervical – In this method, a catheter is passed through the cervix to the placenta and the cells are then collected using suction force.

The tests are usually carried out between the 10th and 13th week from the last menstrual period. The test is used to see the risks of disorders like Downs Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis and other abnormalities. In fact, this test is also used for paternity testing. The DNA of the baby and that of the possible father are compared.

Chorionic Villus Sampling belongs to the group of diagnostic test. It is highly accurate with almost 98%–99% accuracy level. Though this test helps in identifying the disorders, it does not measure the intensity of the abnormality. It also cannot be used to detect defects in the neural tube.

The risks that are associated with this test include miscarriage and others. However, the rate of its occurrence is 1 out of every 100. One should note, that CVS is not to be performed on women who fulfill the following conditions:

§  Are suffering from STD

§  Are experiencing heavy bleeding from the vagina during pregnancy

§  Are carrying twins

The CVS has the following side effects:

§  Spotting

§  Cramps and pains at the point of incision

§  Infection

Before going for the test, it is better that you consult your doctor and your partner. The risks and advantages associated with the tests should be taken into consideration and the pros and cons carefully evaluated.

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