Definition | Reasons for Test | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

Chorionic villus sampling is a test that is done during early pregnancy to test for chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. It involves removing chorionic villi from the placenta. The placenta is the organ that provides nutrients and oxygen to the baby during pregnancy. It also removes waste from the baby’s blood. Chorionic villi is the tissue that makes up most of the placenta. The test is done during the 9th-13th weeks of pregnancy.

Nine Week Old Fetus in Utero

Nine Week Old Fetus in Utero
Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Reasons for Test

Chorionic villi contains valuable information about the baby’s genes. By testing chorionic villi, the doctor can find out if the baby has a chromosomal abnormality, like Down syndrome. The test can also detect genetic disorders, like cystic fibrosis. It cannot detect neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.

This test may be considered when:

  • Other tests, such as a first trimester ultrasound revealed abnormal results
  • A prior pregnancy had a chromosomal abnormality
  • The mother is 35 years old or older
  • You or your partner is a carrier for a genetic disorder
  • There is a family history of a genetic disorder

Although a test showing a healthy baby without a genetic disorder is ideal, you will need to be prepared if the results show otherwise. If the test shows that your baby may have a genetic disorder, it may require you to make tough decisions regarding your pregnancy, such as whether or not to continue it. If you do continue with the pregnancy, you will need to address concerns, such as planning for a child with special needs. Your doctor can help you understand the pros and cons of having this test, as well as talk to you about options after you know the results.

Possible Complications

There are some risks with this test:

  • Miscarriage
  • Cramping
  • Bleeding from the vagina
  • Sensitivity to your baby’s blood, which may enter your bloodstream, also called Rh incompatibility
  • Infection in the uterus

Chorionic villus sampling may not be recommended if you:

What to Expect

Since you may need to have a full bladder, drink plenty of fluids before the test. However, depending on how your placenta is positioned, you may be asked to urinate before the test. Talk with your doctor about specific ways to prepare for the test. Also, arrange to have someone drive you home from the hospital.

The doctor will use an ultrasound to find out the position of your placenta and your baby’s age. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of structures inside the body.

The doctor will cleanse your abdomen with antiseptic. Using the ultrasound images as a guide, a long, thin needle will be inserted through your abdominal wall. The needle will enter your uterus, avoiding the baby. You may feel cramping at this time. A tissue sample from your placenta will be withdrawn into a syringe through the needle.

The doctor may want to monitor your baby’s heart rate using an ultrasound. You will be encouraged to rest when you are home. You will most likely be able to return to normal activities the next day. If you have a RH negative blood type, you will need to receive Rhgam to prevent a condition called isoimmunization.

30-45 minutes

You may feel some cramping during and after the test. You may also have a small amount of bleeding right after the test.

It may take 1-2 weeks to receive your test results. You will go over your results with your doctor or a genetic counselor.

If the test results are unclear, you may need to have another test called an amniocentesis. This is to help get a better understanding of the results.

If the results show that your baby has a genetic disorder or problems with chromosomes, you and your doctor will discuss how to manage your pregnancy. This may be a stressful time. Seeking support from your family, friends, and healthcare team can help.

Call Your Doctor

After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Heavy bleeding from your vagina
  • Leaking of amniotic fluid
  • Uterine contractions
  • Fever
  • Chills

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.