Should I have a CVS test or amniocentesis?

The main advantage of the CVS test is that it can be carried out a few weeks before the amniocentesis test. The amniocentesis test is usually carried out between 15 and 20 weeks and it can take up to 2 weeks for the results to come through; this means you can be at an advanced stage when you need to decide which option you should take if there is a problem with the foetus. If you choose to have a CVS test, the results will come back and you will still have time to repeat the test or have an amniocentesis test if the results are inconclusive; you can then be sure of the facts before you make a decision about whether to continue the pregnancy or not.

In terms of the risks, both tests carry risks but complications are rare; for women who have a high risk of having a baby with an inherited condition, the benefits of having the test far outweigh the risks.

If you are unsure which test to have you should discuss this with your doctor or midwife; they will be able to explain what each test entails and they will explain which test will best suit your individual situation.