Safe and secure diagnostic screening procedures to detect genetic abnormalities in the unborn child.

CVS involves taking a tiny amount of the developing placenta, where it is attached to the uterus. The placenta contains tissue that is genetically identical to your baby. CVS may be performed in two ways. Most CVS are performed through the abdomen, but CVS may also be performed through the cervix (neck of the womb). It is performed under an ultrasound guidance to check the positions of both your baby and placenta within the womb.

You would be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure is carried out.

The risk of miscarriage after performing a CVS is 1-2%

It is an ultrasound guided procedure. You need to have normal breakfast or lunch before the procedure. Try avoiding coffee and tea, as it leads to more movements of the fetus.

After observing the baby’s movement and position the doctor cleans the abdomen with an antiseptic. Under the guidance of ultrasound a small needle is inserted into the amniotic pocket.

This is to avoid any puncture or damage to the baby. About 20 ml of amniotic fluid is taken out. There is no anesthetic required, you will awake throughout the procedure.

You would be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure is carried out.

The pain from an amniocentesis procedure is similar to having a blood test from your arm, but there would slight cramps or period like pain during the procedure.

If you are having an amniocentesis for a chromosomal disorder, all chromosomes will be looked at. This means that the test may occasionally detect a problem with the chromosomes which was not expected. If the results show anything abnormal you will be told what the abnormality is and how this will affect your baby. If you are having an amniocentesis for a single gene disorder, only this will be tested for.

The risk of miscarriage after performing a Amniocentesis is 1-2%