A tiny fragment from the edge of the chorionic tissue is removed for tests. Most women do not find this test painful, although it can be a little uncomfortable. A general anaesthetic is not necessary. Mothers are recommended to rest for a while before leaving the hospital and then to take things easy for a couple of days, particularly avoiding any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise during this time. One of the greatest advantages of the CVS test is the ability to diagnose some congenital abnormalities early in pregnancy.
Results are available much earlier than with amniocentesis.
An important aspect is the miscarriage rate after this test. The natural miscarriage rate is higher in early pregnancy, around the time the early CVS test is performed. It is therefore more difficult to know exactly what the miscarriage rate is for the CVS test, although it is felt to be slightly higher than for amniocentesis. However, if CVS is performed around the 18 week stage, then the risk of miscarriage is probably in the same order as that for amniocentesis. How to find out more You can obtain further detailed information and advice from your midwife, obstetrician or general practitioner.