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11–14 Weeks of Pregnancy
(First Trimester)
0.5–1% Procedure Risk
(Experienced Centres)
1 wk Rapid FISH
Result Time
3 wk Full Karyotype
Result Time
What is CVS?

A Placental Biopsy —
Your Earliest Window to a Diagnosis

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is an invasive prenatal diagnostic procedure in which a small sample of placental tissue — called the chorionic villi — is collected under ultrasound guidance and sent to a genetics laboratory for chromosomal analysis.

Because the chorionic villi and the baby share the same genetic material, this tiny biopsy reveals the baby's complete chromosomal blueprint. Every test available through amniocentesis — karyotype, chromosomal microarray, FISH, single-gene testing — can be obtained through CVS, but weeks earlier, in the first trimester.

At Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre, CVS is performed by Dr. Kunda Shahane — Central India's first fetal medicine specialist — under continuous real-time guidance on the GE Voluson Signature Expert. High-definition visualisation of the placenta and needle throughout the procedure maximises both safety and accuracy.

CVS — At a Glance
When: 11–14 weeks of pregnancy (first trimester only)
Sample: Chorionic villi — placental tissue with the same DNA as your baby
Procedure time: 5–10 minutes for the biopsy itself
Guidance: Continuous ultrasound throughout (GE Voluson Signature Expert)
Risk: ~0.5–1% miscarriage risk at experienced centres
FISH result: 1 week for common chromosomal conditions
Key advantage: First-trimester timing — the same definitive tests, weeks earlier
How Do They Compare?

CVS vs Amniocentesis —
Choosing the Right Test for Your Pregnancy

Both CVS and amniocentesis provide definitive chromosomal diagnosis — the choice depends primarily on timing and your individual clinical situation. Dr. Kunda Shahane will counsel you carefully on which is most appropriate for you.

CVSChorionic Villus Sampling AmniocentesisMid-Trimester Procedure
Timing 11–14 weeksEarlier 15–20 weeks
Sample Collected Placental tissue (chorionic villi) Amniotic fluid
Available Tests Karyotype · Microarray · FISH · Single-gene Karyotype · Microarray · FISH · Single-gene
FISH Result Time 1 week 1 week
Full Karyotype 3 weeks 3 weeks
Miscarriage Risk ~0.5–1% ~0.1–0.3%Lower
Procedure Route Transabdominal or Transcervical Transabdominal only
Best For When first-trimester answers are essential When slightly lower procedural risk is the priority
Limitation Not suitable if placenta position is technically difficult; slightly higher risk Cannot be performed before 15 weeks

Dr. Kunda Shahane will review your scan, NT result, and clinical history before recommending CVS or amniocentesis.

Indications

Who Is CVS Recommended For?

CVS is offered when definitive chromosomal diagnosis is needed in the first trimester — often after a screening result that indicates increased risk, or when the family's situation requires the earliest possible answer to plan and prepare.

High-Risk NT Scan or First Trimester Screening

An increased nuchal translucency (NT ≥3.5 mm) or a high-risk combined first trimester screening result raises the possibility of chromosomal conditions and may warrant definitive testing.

High-Risk NIPT Result

NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnosis. A positive or high-risk NIPT result must be confirmed by an invasive test — CVS or amniocentesis — before any clinical decisions are made.

Previous Affected Pregnancy or Family History

Families who have had a previous child or pregnancy with a chromosomal condition, or who carry a known heritable chromosomal or single-gene disorder, may benefit from early definitive testing.

Advanced Maternal Age (35+)

Women aged 35 and above have a naturally higher baseline risk for chromosomal conditions. When combined with other risk factors, first-trimester testing via CVS may be recommended.

Structural Anomaly on First Trimester Scan

If an anomaly — increased nuchal fold, absent nasal bone, or other structural finding — is detected at the 11–14 week scan, chromosomal analysis is often recommended alongside further surveillance.

Parental Chromosomal Rearrangement

Parents carrying a balanced translocation, inversion, or other chromosomal rearrangement have a significant risk of passing an unbalanced form to the baby. Early diagnosis allows full time to assess and plan.

Procedure Technique

The Two Approaches to CVS

CVS can be performed by two routes, depending on the position of the placenta and Dr. Kunda's assessment. Both approaches yield the same quality of tissue sample and the same diagnostic information.

Most Common Approach
Transabdominal CVS

A thin needle is guided through the abdominal wall and uterine wall into the placenta — under continuous real-time ultrasound guidance. The GE Voluson Signature Expert provides high-definition imaging throughout, keeping the needle tip visible at all times.

This is the preferred route for most cases, particularly when the placenta is anterior (front wall), fundal (top), or lateral. The needle is very thin and the sampling takes 5–10 minutes. Local anaesthesia is generally not required.

Preferred at Mayflower Clinic for most placental positions.
Alternative Approach
Transcervical CVS

A thin flexible catheter is passed through the cervical opening (cervix) and guided to the placenta under ultrasound guidance. A small amount of chorionic villi is drawn up gently through the catheter.

This approach is used when the placenta is in a position that makes transabdominal access technically difficult — for example, a posterior placenta lying flat against the back wall of the uterus.

Used when transabdominal access is not technically optimal.

The optimal route is determined by Dr. Kunda Shahane after reviewing your ultrasound findings. You will be advised on the planned approach at your pre-procedure consultation.

Laboratory Analysis

What Can Be Tested From the CVS Sample?

The chorionic villi collected during CVS carry the same chromosomal and genetic information as your baby. This tissue sample can be used for several laboratory tests, depending on your clinical indication and what Dr. Kunda recommends.

🔬
FISH
Result: 1 week
Rapid detection of Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), Trisomy 18, Trisomy 13, and sex chromosome abnormalities (Turner, Klinefelter). The fastest route to preliminary answers.
🧬
Karyotyping
Result: 3 weeks
Full analysis of all 46 chromosomes — detects numerical abnormalities (trisomies, monosomies) and large structural rearrangements. The gold standard for chromosomal diagnosis.
🧫
Chromosomal Microarray
Result: 4 Weeks
Detects tiny deletions and duplications (CNVs) invisible to standard karyotype. Recommended alongside karyotype when there is a structural fetal anomaly or when indicated clinically.
🧪
Single-Gene Testing
Result: 3–4 Weeks
For families with a known inherited condition — thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, SMA, Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Requires prior identification of the family-specific mutation.
⚗️
Metabolic Testing
Result: Variable
Selected enzyme assays for inborn errors of metabolism, in families with a previously affected child. Ordered only in specific circumstances on specialist advice.
Note: Not every test is needed for every patient. Dr. Kunda Shahane determines which tests are clinically appropriate based on your specific indication, family history, and previous screening results. She will explain clearly what each test can and cannot detect before you decide.
Dr. Kunda's Pre-Procedure Assessment

What Dr. Kunda Shahane Evaluates Before CVS

CVS is not simply a sampling procedure. It begins with a thorough pre-procedure assessment by Dr. Kunda — using the GE Voluson Signature Expert — to plan the safest approach and confirm that the procedure is appropriate at this moment in your pregnancy.

Gestational Age Confirmation

Precise dating by crown-rump length (CRL) measurement to confirm the pregnancy is within the 11–14 week window. CVS before 11 weeks carries a higher risk of fetal complications and is not performed.

Placental Location Mapping

Detailed assessment of whether the placenta is anterior, posterior, fundal, or lateral — and which approach (transabdominal or transcervical) provides the safest and most direct access.

Fetal Viability Confirmation

Confirming an active fetal heartbeat before proceeding. CVS is not performed if there is any concern about fetal viability at the time of the procedure.

Uterine Anatomy Assessment

Evaluating uterine position (anteverted, retroverted), the presence of fibroids near the planned needle path, and overall accessibility to ensure safe, unobstructed entry.

Review of Indication and Counselling

Confirming the clinical indication, reviewing NT measurements and screening results, explaining the procedure, risks, and result timeline — and ensuring fully informed consent before proceeding.

Blood Group and Rh Status

Rh-negative women need Anti-D immunoglobulin after CVS to prevent Rh sensitisation. Dr. Kunda confirms blood group status and ensures Anti-D prophylaxis is arranged before the procedure.

The Procedure

What to Expect — Step by Step

Dr. Kunda Shahane and her team will guide you through every step. The sampling itself takes 5–10 minutes, but your total clinic time will be longer — to allow for thorough assessment, counselling, the procedure, and post-procedure monitoring.

  • 1
    Pre-procedure ultrasound scan

    Dr. Kunda performs a detailed scan using the GE Voluson Signature Expert to confirm gestational age, fetal viability, placental position, and uterine anatomy. This determines the safest needle route, entry point, and which of the two approaches will be used.

  • 2
    Counselling and informed consent

    Dr. Kunda explains the procedure and the specific risks in your case, reviews what tests will be performed on the sample, discusses the result timeline, and ensures all your questions are answered. Written informed consent is obtained before proceeding.

  • 3
    Preparation

    For transabdominal CVS, the abdomen is cleaned with antiseptic solution. For transcervical CVS, the vaginal area is prepared. You remain awake and positioned comfortably throughout. Local anaesthesia is generally not required — the needle is thin and most women experience only brief discomfort.

  • 4
    Needle or catheter placement under ultrasound guidance

    The thin needle (transabdominal) or flexible catheter (transcervical) is guided precisely to the placenta under continuous real-time ultrasound visualisation. The image on screen shows the instrument position throughout — it does not approach the baby.

  • 5
    Tissue sample collection

    A small amount of chorionic villi (placental tissue) is withdrawn by gentle aspiration. The sample is a few milligrams — enough for full genetic analysis. The placenta continues to function normally after the biopsy.

  • 6
    Immediate post-procedure fetal check

    As soon as the needle or catheter is removed, Dr. Kunda checks the fetal heartbeat and the puncture site on ultrasound. You will rest at the clinic for 20–30 minutes before leaving. Anti-D injection is given to Rh-negative women before discharge.

  • 7
    Sample dispatch and result counselling

    The tissue sample is carefully labelled and dispatched to the genetics laboratory. Dr. Kunda gives you clear written instructions on the expected timeline, what to watch for at home, and exactly who to contact if you have concerns.

After Your CVS — Care Instructions
🏠Rest at home for the remainder of the procedure day. Most women feel well enough to return to normal activities the following day.
🚫Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and exercise for 48 hours after the procedure.
💊Mild abdominal cramping is common and expected — paracetamol may be taken if needed. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen.
🩹Light spotting (vaginal bleeding) for 1–2 days after transcervical CVS is normal. This generally settles without any intervention.
💉Rh-negative women will receive Anti-D immunoglobulin before leaving the clinic. Please confirm your blood group in advance.
📞The clinic team will contact you with your results. Keep your phone accessible and the clinic number saved.
⚠️ Contact the clinic immediately if you experience any of the following: Heavy or persistent bleeding · Significant watery discharge or fluid leak · Fever above 38°C · Severe abdominal pain or cramping that does not settle · Absence of fetal movement (after 18 weeks).
WhatsApp or call 24×7: +91-8087471244 | 0712-669-2706
Before You Come

Preparing for Your CVS Appointment

✓ CVS Appointment Checklist

  • ✓Bladder: Come with a partially full bladder — drink 2–3 glasses of water 30–45 minutes before your appointment. This helps with uterine positioning and ultrasound visibility.
  • ✓No fasting required: You may eat and drink normally before CVS. There is no need to fast.
  • ✓Bring your reports: NT scan report, first trimester screening result, NIPT result (if done), any genetic counselling documents, and previous pregnancy records if relevant.
  • ✓ID and documents: A valid government-issued photo ID, Aadhaar card, and any referral documents from your obstetrician.
  • ✓Bring a companion: Do not drive yourself home after CVS. Bring your partner, a family member, or a trusted person to accompany you.
  • ✓Comfortable clothing: Loose, comfortable clothing — especially around the abdomen. Avoid tight waistbands. Two-piece clothing makes the procedure easier.
  • ✓Allow adequate time: Plan for a total clinic time of 1.5–2 hours, including pre-procedure assessment, counselling, the procedure itself, and post-procedure rest.
  • ✓Blood group: If you do not know your Rh status, inform the clinic in advance so that Anti-D arrangements can be made if you are Rh-negative.
Watch Dr. Kunda Shahane
Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis — Amniocentesis & CVS at Mayflower Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions

Your CVS Questions, Answered

What is the difference between CVS and amniocentesis?
CVS is performed at 11–14 weeks of pregnancy, while amniocentesis is done at 15–20 weeks. Both tests provide identical chromosomal information — karyotype, chromosomal microarray, FISH, and single-gene testing — and use continuous ultrasound guidance. The key difference is timing: CVS gives you answers in the first trimester, while amniocentesis is performed later in the second trimester. The trade-off is a slightly higher miscarriage risk with CVS (~0.5–1% versus ~0.1–0.3% for amniocentesis). Dr. Kunda Shahane will help you weigh these factors carefully based on your clinical situation and what matters most to your family.
Is CVS painful? What should I expect to feel?
Most patients describe CVS as similar to a blood test — brief, mild discomfort rather than significant pain. The needle used is thin and the sampling takes only 5–10 minutes. Local anaesthesia is generally not required for transabdominal CVS. Mild abdominal cramping during and for a few hours after the procedure is normal and expected. After transcervical CVS, light spotting for a day or two is common. Most women feel comfortable enough to travel home within 30–40 minutes of the procedure.
When exactly is CVS performed during pregnancy?
CVS is performed between 11 weeks and 14 weeks of pregnancy — entirely within the first trimester. Performing CVS before 11 weeks is not recommended, as there is a slightly higher risk of a rare limb-reduction defect at very early gestations. After 14 weeks, amniocentesis becomes the preferred approach as the placental tissue becomes less accessible and amniocentesis can be performed shortly afterwards. The ideal window is between 11 weeks 3 days and 13 weeks 6 days.
What chromosomal conditions can CVS detect?
CVS can detect all major chromosomal abnormalities, including: Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13), Turner syndrome (45,X), Klinefelter syndrome (47,XXY), and other numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities. Chromosomal microarray additionally detects submicroscopic deletions and duplications (copy number variants) not visible on standard karyotype. Where a specific family mutation is known, single-gene conditions such as thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, SMA, and Duchenne muscular dystrophy can also be tested from the same CVS sample.
What is the actual miscarriage risk from CVS?
At experienced centres, the procedure-related miscarriage risk from CVS is approximately 0.5–1%. This means that in 99 or more out of 100 procedures, there is no miscarriage directly related to the CVS. It is also important to note that first-trimester pregnancies carry a background risk of miscarriage (approximately 2–5% at 11–14 weeks) that is unrelated to any procedure. Dr. Kunda Shahane performs CVS with continuous ultrasound guidance on the GE Voluson Signature Expert to minimise procedural risk. The specific risk in your case will be discussed during your pre-procedure counselling.
How long will it take to get my CVS results?
The timeline depends on which tests are ordered. FISH results — which detect the most common chromosomal conditions including Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome — are typically available within 1 week of the laboratory receiving the sample. Full karyotype results take 3 weeks. Chromosomal microarray results take approximately 4 weeks. Single-gene tests, if ordered, take 3–4 weeks. Dr. Kunda Shahane will personally discuss all results with you and provide full counselling on their meaning before any decisions are considered.
Can CVS be performed in a twin pregnancy?
Yes, CVS can be performed in twin pregnancies, though it requires additional expertise and planning. In dichorionic-diamniotic (DCDA) twins — where each baby has its own separate placenta — Dr. Kunda can sample each placenta individually to obtain a result for each twin. In monochorionic twins who share a single placenta, one sample from the shared placenta is generally sufficient, as both twins carry the same chromosomal complement. The chorionicity (type) of your twin pregnancy will be assessed before advising on the most appropriate approach.

Related Services at Mayflower Clinic

Amniocentesis in Nagpur → Genetic Counselling → NIPT / Prenatal Screening → NT Scan → All Interventional Procedures → About Dr. Kunda Shahane →

Need Clarity? We Are Here for You.

If you have received a high-risk screening result or have been referred for CVS, Dr. Kunda Shahane will review your case personally and guide you through every step — with expertise, honesty, and compassion. You do not have to face this alone.

📞 Call 0712-669-2706 💬 WhatsApp Us 📅 Book Appointment

Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre · Dhantoli, Nagpur 440012 · Monday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

⚖️ PCPNDT Act Compliance Notice Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre strictly complies with the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994. Sex determination and sex-selective practices are strictly prohibited and punishable by law. All diagnostic services at this centre are performed exclusively for medical diagnosis and fetal wellbeing. Disclosure of fetal sex is illegal and is not performed at this centre.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult Dr. Kunda Shahane or your treating obstetrician for advice specific to your pregnancy.