By now you should be aware that the CVS procedure can identify minor chromosome abnormalities, such as copy number variants, as well as significant chromosome issues, like Down syndrome.

In at-risk fetuses, the CVS procedure can detect genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, and sickle cell disease.

Let’s get into more details about the time taken to the procedure, the process, and what to expect from the CVS in this blog.

How long does CVS procedure take?

Although the entire consultation may last up to 30 minutes, CVS typically lasts around 10 minutes. Your genetic counselor may evaluate your prior pregnancies and family history, discuss your prenatal screening and testing options, and address any questions or concerns you might have.

After that, an ultrasound will be performed to determine where the placenta is and how far along you are in your pregnancy. The 10-minute CVS procedure is carried out with ultrasound guidance.
You will then be watched for up to an hour in case you experience any adverse effects, like heavy bleeding. Then you can rest at home.

What happens during a CVS test?

On the day of your procedure, you can eat normally, drink normally, and take a shower. You should then go home and rest for the rest of the day. You should also drink a large glass (8 oz) of water or juice every 1-2 hours if you have had abdominal CVS.

The test entails taking a small sample of cells from your placenta, which connects your blood supply to that of your unborn child and testing them. This will be carried out under the supervision of your consultant.

Using a needle inserted through your abdominal wall or a pair of tiny forceps (like tongs) inserted through your cervix, a sample of placental tissue is obtained.

Following tissue collection, DNA (genetic or chromosomal) abnormalities are examined. Your complete report will typically be available in a couple of working weeks after the release of your preliminary results. It’s normal to feel some minor discomfort or burning where the needle was inserted.

How painful is CVS?

Then, a transducer, a hand-held probe, is moved over the region of your belly. In order to locate the location of your uterus, your healthcare professional may also press on your abdomen.

The gel will initially feel chilly and could irritate your skin if not removed with water.

According to some women, the vaginal approach causes some discomfort and a sense of pressure, similar to a Pap test. A small amount of vaginal bleeding could occur after the procedure.

What can I expect after CVS surgery?

After CVS, most women recover very well and can resume their regular activities in 24 hours. After trans-cervical (vaginal route) CVS, about one-fourth of patients will experience some spotting or vaginal bleeding.

Spotting for a few days to two weeks, a light flow requiring the use of one or two sanitary pads for 24 to 48 hours, or the passage of small clots several days after the procedure are all examples of “bleeding.” Even if there is no immediate bleeding, it could happen a few days later. THAT IS USUAL.

Mild abdominal or uterine cramping that lasts 12 to 24 hours is possible. Tenderness or bruising at the site of the needle insertion may appear after trans-abdominal CVS procedures.

The worst part of the process may end up being the anxiety of waiting for the results after the procedure has been safely completed. In 7–10 days, a genetic counselor will contact you with the results of the final karyotype analysis. The timeline for results may change if specialized testing is requested.

Can I drive after a CVS procedure?

As soon as you feel prepared, you can drive yourself home. But we advise you to take the day off work so you can rest. Resting in bed is not required.

• Wait 24 hours before engaging in any strenuous exercise or work activity
  
• For 24 hours, avoid lifting anything heavier than 15 pounds
  
• For 48 hours, refrain from sexual activity, bathing, using a hot tub, or swimming if you have a transvaginal CVS. A shower will do
• Ideally for 72 hours do not indulge in strenuous activity (i.e., exercise)
  
• No tampons. Use pads only if spotting occurs
  
• Do not lift more than 20 pounds
• For 5-7 days following the procedure, avoid scheduling lengthy flights
  

Please contact your doctor or midwife right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

How long do chorionic villus results take?

Following chorionic villus sampling (CVS), the sample of cells will be sent to a lab for analysis.

It is possible to count the chromosomes (bundles of genes) present in each cell and to examine their physical makeup.

The cells in the sample can be examined for any chromosomal or medical conditions that are being investigated by CVS.

Within three working days, you should have access to the preliminary findings, which will inform you of any chromosomal or medical conditions discovered.

Typically, you have the option of receiving the results verbally over the phone, in person at the hospital, or even at home. Additionally, you’ll get written confirmation of the outcomes.

Approximately two out of every 100 samples are CVS-negative. If this occurs, a second test might be offered to you. Amniocentesis, an alternative test, may be required if this occurs.

A word from Jammi Scans

Talk to our fetal medicine specialist at Jammi Scans if you want more coordinated care during your pregnancy. Alternatively, if you have taken our services earlier, we also appreciate any feedback or ideas you may have to help us provide better services.

Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans