Why is the CVS test used?

Chorionic villus sampling (commonly known as CVS) is a test which is carried out during the first trimester of a pregnancy to detect any abnormalities or signs of inherited conditions in the foetus. The CVS test is part of the antenatal screening programme and is offered to all women; many women choose not to have the test but doctors recommend that women with higher risk (if they have a family history of an inherited condition or they are over the age of 35, for example) to have the CVS test.

The CVS test is used to identify problems with the foetus; the test can be used to diagnose abnormalities or inherited conditions at a very early stage and it may be possible to treat the condition before it develops any further. Having the CVS test gives couples the option to continue with their pregnancy, or terminate the pregnancy in the event that the condition cannot be treated; this is a very difficult decision for most people and doctors and midwives will do their best to explain both options in great detail.

The CVS test is often recommended for women aged over 35 and people with a family history of inherited conditions, including Down’s syndrome and muscular dystrophy.

The CVS test is often used as an alternative to the amniocentesis test; the CVS test can be carried out before the amniocentesis test, which gives couples the opportunity to find out about the health of their baby earlier on; they then have more time to make a decision about the future.