Re: CONCERNED DAD

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There is no set time, as it depends on positioning and a host of other factors. The earliest I ever was sure was between 13 and 14 weeks (my first son - my wife and I were scanning almost daily), but that was an exception. I am generally sure about 80% of the time if the scan is performed between 18-20 weeks.

>
>What is coreonic phillisamling and is it safe? What does it do for my
>significant other?

Chorionic villus sampling is a technique used to obtain fetal cells so that they may be evaluated for their genetic (chromosomal) complement. Most commonly, it involves passing a small catheter through the vagina, then through the cervix into the uterus, and then aspirating some of the placental villus tissue. This tissue can then be cultured for the chromosomes. If this proceedure is successful, it provides exactly the same information as the amniocentesis, but at a much earlier gestational age.

>
>Do you recommend amniocentesis? What is it? Is it safe?

Amniocentesis is another technique for acquiring fetal cells so that the chromosomes can be studied. This is typically done somewhat later in pregnancy than CVS, and involves inserting a needle through the mother's abdominal wall, through the uterine wall, and into the amniotic sac surrounding the baby. The amniotic fluid contains fetal cells that are floating freely, and any sample of that fluid would be expected to contain those cells. Those cells can then be cultured and the chromosomes examined.

There are risks to the pregnancy for both CVS and amnio, with the risks of CVS generally considered to be somewhat higher. The great majority of both of these proceedures go well, but there is a risk of miscarriage with both of them . The information derived from the tests is identical. The advantage of CVS is that is that it can be done earlier in pregnancy, and the results are available somewhat quicker. The advantage of the amnio is that it is somewhat safer and is less invasive.

>
>How does this work? Do you send me an e-mail?

And now you know how this is done.

>
>Thanks,
>
>Concerned Dad

--
William D. McIntosh, MD, FACOG
Clarksville, TN

This is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to be replacement
or substitute for consultation and examination by an appropriate medical
professional.  Due to time constraints, private e-mails cannot be answered.

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