Fetus or newborn affected by chorionic villous sampling

Definition

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a procedure where a small sample of the placenta is removed, either through the cervix or abdomen. Risks when performing CVS include: injury to the fetus or mother from the needle, infection to the mother from a punctured bowel or contaminated skin, or Rhesus sensitisation. Injury or infection can lead to miscarriage, although this is rare.

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