Invasive Tests

Invasive testing is used to diagnose conditions of the fetus during pregnancy. The two most common methods of invasive testing include Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) and Amniocentesis. With both CVS and Amniocentesis there is a very small risk of miscarriage or harm to the fetus. Fakih IVF Fertility Center offers non-invasive testing that may be completed before an invasive alternative in order to determine if invasive testing is recommended. If you have questions about if CVS, Amniocentesis or any other invasive or non-invasive methods are recommended for your pregnancy, book an appointment at Fakih IVF Fertility Center today.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

CVS involves the examination of the chorionic villi (placental tissue). Because the fetus and the placenta develop from the same cells, the chromosomes present in the placenta are representative of the chromosomes in the fetus. A thin ultrasound-guided needle is passed through the mother’s abdomen and a sample of the villi is taken. Following the CVS, the patient may experience slight abdominal discomfort. If CVS is completed in order to diagnose the risk of Down syndrome, results are available within 2 to 3 days. For other rare conditions, results may take longer. Your physician will keep you informed as to when you can expect to receive the results of your CVS.

Amniocentesis

Amniocentesis involves the examination of cells in the amniotic fluid, the fluid that surrounds the fetus. The cells in the amniotic fluid originate from the baby, making the chromosomes representative of those that can be found in the baby. Amniocentesis is completed using a thin ultrasound-guided needle to remove a small amount of amniotic fluid. Following the Amniocentesis, the patient may experience slight abdominal discomfort. If Amniocentesis is completed in order to diagnose the risk of Down syndrome, results are available within 2 to 3 days. For other rare conditions, results may take longer. Your physician will keep you informed as to when you can expect to receive the results of your Amniocentesis.

For more information on the fetal medicine services provided by the physicians at Fakih IVF Fertility Center or to ask any questions, you may book an appointment with Dr. Samer Cheaib or Dr. Maysarah Alawneh at Fakih IVF Fertility Center today.