Chorion Villus Sampling

Chorion Villus Sampling (CVS) involves removing some cells from the placenta (afterbirth). These cells are grown and examined to check the chromosomes of your baby and to exclude problems like Down’s syndrome.

Using a local anaesthetic and with ultrasound guidance a fine needle is passed through your abdomen and a sample of ‘villi’ are taken. The takes approximately 1-2 minutes to perform. The needle is guided by ultrasound at all times so that it doesn’t harm your baby.

The results for Downs Syndrome and other major chromosomal defects are usually available within 48 hours in the majority of cases. The cells are then grown for a further 10 days and the results confirmed.

The results will be fully discussed with you by a specialist in fetal medicine.

Please note that you do not need a GP referral. We have a dedicated team of support staff ready to help you.

Amniocentesis

In this test a small amount of the fluid (10-15mls) that surrounds your baby is taken by using a fine needle that is inserted into the womb. The needle is guided by ultrasound at all times so that it doesn’t harm your baby.

The results from this test take 48-72 hours to exclude Down’s syndrome and two very uncommon chromosomal anomalies (Trisomy 18 and 13). The cells are then further cultured for 10-14 days. Up to half abnormal results show chromosomal problems other than Down’s syndrome.

The results will be fully discussed with you by a specialist in fetal medicine and how any abnormal results will affect the baby.

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