Fetal sampling, such as amniocentesis and CVS, is done to diagnose the health status of the fetus, especially to check for genetic abnormalities. These tests are performed in cases of high-risk pregnancies resulting from screening or people at risk for specific genetic diseases if diagnosed by an expert. At HopeGene Medical Center, amniotic fluid and placental villi are sampled by a perinatologist (maternal and fetal medicine specialist).
Amniocentesis is a procedure in which some of the amniotic fluid that surrounds and protects the fetus during pregnancy is removed and tested. This liquid contains fetal cells and various chemicals produced by the fetus. Amniocentesis can be performed from the 16th week of pregnancy, and in some cases, this examination is performed earlier than the 16th week, but experts consider the best time to be the 16th week. In the CVS method, which is suitable for investigating the molecular causes of fetal disorders, placental villi are sampled.
CVS can be performed from the 11th week of pregnancy to the 13th week of pregnancy. It is also possible to perform this test in older pregnancies up to the 14th week of pregnancy.