A CVS pregnancy test stands for Chorionic Villus Sampling. This is a test that s able to look into the chromosomes and check for abnormalities. It is usually carried out during pregnancy, usually between the 11th and 14th week; however, it can also be done at a later date.
Why someone is offered a CVS pregnancy test
This is usually offered to test for Down’s syndrome and is offered to women who are in the high risk group. This will help to test for the abnormalities that are common with Down’s syndrome and other conditions.
If anything comes back abnormal, you will then need to go for a second test, which is a diagnostic test; this is where you will find out what the abnormality is.
If there is a genetic condition that runs in your family, you will likely be offered the test; the baby’s father will be taken into consideration for these tests. If you have had an abnormality in an earlier pregnancy, even if the pregnancy did not reach full term, you will be offered the test.
Should you have the CVS pregnancy test
This is completely up to you and your partner. There are some couples who prefer not to know and will take whatever comes to them, but there are others who will worry too much without knowing. It also depends on the type of abnormalities that are possible and are genetic.
It is important to talk to your midwife or doctor about the test, as they will be able to go through the pros and the cons to help you make your decision.
You will also be able to ask all the questions that you have, which will help you to decide whether the CVS pregnancy test is for you or not. If you do decide to have the test, do not be afraid to ask questions at the hospital; write them down so you do not forget them.
The process of the CVS pregnancy test
You will be asked to be as hydrated as possible before the test since a full bladder is needed. You will lie on your back and local anesthetic will be rubbed onto your belly to help numb it. A needle will be placed into your belly; it will be long enough to be able to reach the placenta so that chromosomes can be taken from there.
You will usually find that there is an ultrasound at the same time. This is commonly used to help the doctor find the placenta to make sure that the test is accurate. After the test, you will also be able to find out the sex of the child; you should say so if you do not want to know this. Your blood group will also be checked to find out your rhesus status and find out if you need an anti-D injection.
Dangers to having the CVS pregnancy test
Like anything, there is a risk to your baby. However, this is minor; otherwise doctors would not suggest having it. There are two percent of pregnancies that will have a miscarriage after receiving the results from the test.
For women who are HIV positive, there is a higher risk of transmitting that to the baby; you will usually be recommended against the test if that is the case. For those who have Hepatitis B or C, the good news is that the chance of transmitting either one is low; there is no evidence to support that chance of it happening due to the test.
