Early diagnosis
CVS is performed at 11‑14 weeks, while amniocentesis is usually done after 16 weeks. This gives you more time to make decisions about your pregnancy and to plan for the future.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is a prenatal diagnostic procedure that involves taking a small sample of tissue from the placenta (chorionic villi) for genetic analysis. It is typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy and provides definitive information about chromosomal conditions (such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome) and many genetic disorders.
CVS is offered when there is an increased risk of a genetic or chromosomal condition – for example, due to maternal age, abnormal screening results (NIPT or combined test), a family history of genetic disorders, or an ultrasound finding suggestive of a chromosomal anomaly. It is the earliest diagnostic test available, allowing you to make informed decisions in the first trimester.
At Amytri, CVS is performed by an experienced consultant radiologist with specialised training in fetal medicine and interventional procedures. We use real‑time ultrasound guidance to ensure the safety and accuracy of the procedure. We take time to explain the process, the risks, and the implications of the results – providing you with the support and information you need to make the best choices for your family.
CVS is the earliest diagnostic test available – giving you definitive answers weeks before amniocentesis, allowing for more time to consider your options.
CVS is performed at 11‑14 weeks, while amniocentesis is usually done after 16 weeks. This gives you more time to make decisions about your pregnancy and to plan for the future.
Unlike screening tests (which give a risk estimate), CVS provides a definitive diagnosis. It analyses the baby's chromosomes directly from placental tissue, with an accuracy of over 99%.
Knowing the diagnosis early allows you to prepare emotionally and practically – whether that means seeking additional support, planning for medical care, or making the difficult decision to terminate the pregnancy.
The sample obtained during CVS can be analysed using several advanced techniques to provide a complete genetic picture.
Full chromosome analysis – detects trisomies 21, 18, 13, sex chromosome anomalies, and structural rearrangements. Results usually available within 7‑10 days.
Rapid testing for the most common trisomies (21, 18, 13) and sex chromosomes – results available in 24‑48 hours, giving you early preliminary information.
Detects submicroscopic deletions and duplications (copy number variants) that may not be visible on routine karyotyping – useful for identifying syndromes like DiGeorge and other microdeletion conditions.
If you have a family history of a specific genetic condition (e.g., cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, spinal muscular atrophy), we can test the CVS sample for that particular mutation.
We test the sample to ensure that it is fetal in origin – avoiding misdiagnosis due to maternal cells in the sample.
We provide a detailed explanation of the results, their clinical significance, and the options available to you – whether the result is normal or abnormal.
We meet with you to discuss the reasons for CVS, the procedure, the risks, and the implications of potential results. We answer all your questions to ensure you can give informed consent.
We perform a detailed ultrasound to confirm the gestational age, check the position of the placenta, and identify the safest route for the procedure (transabdominal or transcervical).
Under continuous ultrasound guidance, we pass a thin needle (transabdominal) or a catheter (transcervical) to obtain a small sample of chorionic villi. The procedure takes about 10‑15 minutes.
FISH results are usually available in 24‑48 hours; full karyotype in 7‑10 days. We call you with the results and arrange a follow‑up consultation to discuss them in detail.
CVS is a diagnostic test offered to women at increased risk of having a baby with a chromosomal or genetic condition.
Advanced maternal age increases the risk of trisomies. CVS can provide a definitive diagnosis early in pregnancy.
If a screening test shows increased risk for a chromosomal condition, CVS can confirm or rule out the diagnosis.
If you or your partner carry a gene for cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, muscular dystrophy, or other inherited disorders, CVS can test for these conditions.
If an early ultrasound reveals markers like increased nuchal translucency (NT), cystic hygroma, or other structural anomalies, CVS can provide a diagnosis.
If you have had a previous affected pregnancy, CVS can assess the risk in the current pregnancy.
If either parent carries a balanced translocation, CVS can detect whether the baby has inherited an unbalanced form.
Dr. Abhishek has extensive experience in performing CVS and other prenatal diagnostic procedures. He is trained in both transabdominal and transcervical approaches, and uses real‑time ultrasound to ensure the procedure is safe and accurate. He understands the emotional weight of this decision and provides clear, compassionate communication before, during, and after the procedure.
Going through CVS can be emotionally challenging – having your partner with you provides support and shared understanding.
We encourage partners to be present for the counselling session and the procedure. We explain what is happening at every step, and we create a calm, supportive environment. After the procedure, we monitor you for a short time and provide clear instructions for aftercare.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is a prenatal diagnostic procedure that takes a small sample of tissue from the placenta (chorionic villi) for genetic testing. It provides a definitive diagnosis of chromosomal conditions and many genetic disorders.
CVS is typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. It is the earliest diagnostic test available, offering results before amniocentesis (which is performed after 16 weeks).
CVS is a safe procedure when performed by an experienced specialist, but it carries a small risk of miscarriage (about 0.5‑1%). We take every precaution to minimise this risk, and we discuss it with you in detail before you decide.
CVS is over 99% accurate in diagnosing chromosomal conditions. However, in rare cases, there may be confined placental mosaicism (where the placenta and baby have different karyotypes) – we discuss this possibility and may recommend follow‑up testing with amniocentesis to confirm.
Yes, typically a referral from your obstetrician is required. They will coordinate with us to ensure the procedure is performed at the optimal time.
We monitor you for about 30 minutes to ensure there is no bleeding or cramping. You will be given aftercare instructions – including rest, avoiding heavy lifting, and watching for signs of infection. Results are usually available in 7‑10 days, with FISH results in 24‑48 hours.
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