Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), also known as chorionic villus biopsy, is a prenatal examination involving the extraction of placental tissue to identify chromosomal abnormalities and specific genetic issues. The placenta, situated in the uterus, serves to deliver blood and nutrients from the mother to the fetus.

Chorionic villi, resembling finger-like projections of placental tissue, carry the same genetic makeup as the fetus. Depending on family history and laboratory capabilities, testing might extend to other genetic disorders during the procedure.

Typically performed between the 10th and 12th weeks of pregnancy, CVS differs from amniocentesis, another prenatal test, in that it does not provide insights into neural tube defects like spina bifida. Consequently, women undergoing CVS require a subsequent blood test between the 16th and 18th weeks of pregnancy to screen for such defects.

Key Facts: Understanding CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling)

1. What CVS Stands For:

CVS refers to Chorionic Villus Sampling, a prenatal diagnostic procedure done to examine genetic and chromosomal conditions in a developing fetus.

2. Timing of the Procedure:

It is usually conducted between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy, making it an early option for detecting potential health issues in the fetus.

3. Purpose of CVS Testing:

Doctors recommend CVS for women at higher risk of genetic disorders due to family history, maternal age, or irregular screening results.

4. How It’s Performed:

A small placental tissue sample is collected using a thin tube through the cervix or a needle through the abdomen, depending on what’s safest.

5. Possible Risks:

CVS is generally safe but may cause minor risks like miscarriage or infection, which is why it’s reserved for medically justified cases.

Two primary methods of CVS exist:

1. Transcervical: This technique involves inserting a catheter through the cervix into the placenta to collect the tissue sample.
2. Transabdominal: Here, a needle is inserted through the abdomen and uterus into the placenta to obtain the tissue sample.

Amniocentesis is another relevant procedure used to diagnose genetic and chromosomal defects.

Anatomy of the fetus in utero

Amniotic sac: A delicate sac that envelops the fetus throughout pregnancy. Filled with amniotic fluid produced by the fetus, it includes the amnion, a membrane shielding the fetal side of the placenta, safeguarding against harm and maintaining fetal temperature.

Anus: The opening situated at the end of the anal canal.

Cervix: The lower segment of the uterus extending into the vagina. Composed mainly of fibrous tissue and muscle, it possesses a circular shape.

Fetus: The term used to describe an unborn baby from the eighth week following fertilization until birth.

Placenta: An organ resembling a flat cake that develops solely during pregnancy. It facilitates metabolic exchange between the fetus and the mother, allowing the fetus to receive oxygen, nutrients, and other essential substances while eliminating carbon dioxide and waste products.

Umbilical cord: A cord resembling a rope that links the fetus to the placenta. It comprises two arteries and a vein, transporting oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removing waste products from it.

Uterine wall: The lining of the uterus.

Uterus (womb): A hollow, pear-shaped organ situated in the lower abdomen of women, positioned between the bladder and the rectum. It sheds its lining monthly during menstruation and serves as the site for the implantation of a fertilized egg (ovum) and subsequent fetal development.

Vagina: An integral part of the female reproductive system located behind the bladder and in front of the rectum. It forms a canal stretching from the uterus to the vulva.

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Reasons for the procedure

Chorionic villus sampling is a procedure commonly employed for genetic and chromosomal testing during the initial stages of pregnancy. Here are several reasons why a woman might opt for CVS:

1. A previous child affected by a genetic disease, or a family history indicating genetic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, or metabolic disorders.
2. Maternal age exceeding 35 years by the expected date of delivery.
3. Elevated risk of a sex-linked genetic ailment.
4. Previous ultrasound results showing dubious or abnormal findings.
5. Abnormal outcomes from cell-free DNA testing.

Additionally, there could be other factors prompting your doctor to suggest chorionic villus sampling.

Pros and Cons of Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

Pros:

• Early Detection
• Accurate Results
• Personalized Care
• Peace of Mind

Cons:

• Risk of Complications
• Limited Information
• Invasive Procedure

Differences Between Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and Vienva

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS):

CVS is a prenatal diagnostic procedure used to detect chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders in the fetus during early pregnancy, typically between 10 to 13 weeks gestation.

Vienva:

Vienva is a brand of combination birth control pill that contains two hormones, estrogen, and progestin, designed to prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation.

Alternative to Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

Amniocentesis:

Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic procedure performed typically between 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. During amniocentesis, a small amount of amniotic fluid is extracted from the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus. This fluid contains fetal cells that can be analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders. Amniocentesis carries a similar risk of complications as CVS but is often preferred for its lower risk of miscarriage.

Risks of the procedure

Like any invasive procedure, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) carries potential complications, including:

• Cramping, bleeding, or amniotic fluid leakage (rupture of membranes).
• Risk of infection.
• Miscarriage.
• Onset of preterm labor.
• Rare occurrence of limb defects in infants, particularly in CVS procedures conducted before the 9th week of pregnancy.
• Individuals allergic to medications or latex should inform their doctor beforehand.
• Women carrying twins or multiples require sampling from each placenta to assess each baby’s condition.

Other risks may vary depending on individual medical circumstances. It is important to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure.

Certain factors or conditions may impede CVS, such as:

• Pregnancy occurring earlier than seven weeks or later than 13 weeks.
• Baby’s position, placental location, amount of amniotic fluid, or maternal anatomy.
• Presence of vaginal or cervical infections.
• Inadequate samples for testing or samples containing maternal tissue.

Before the procedure