Which specialist performs chorionic villus sampling?

Chorionic villus sampling, or CVS, collects a small sample of placental tissue for genetic testing during pregnancy. A maternal-fetal medicine specialist is an obstetrician with additional expertise in pregnancies needing detailed assessment and procedures. Ultrasound is used to guide the sampling route, while nurses and laboratory specialists support preparation, monitoring, and analysis.

The procedure may be approached through the cervix or through the abdomen, depending on the placenta, uterus, pregnancy stage, and the clinician’s assessment. Your obstetrician may arrange the referral and help interpret how the result fits with your pregnancy care.

Ask your obstetrician or antenatal clinic for referral to a maternal-fetal medicine service. Take your scan reports, family medical history, medication list, and any previous genetic test results. Before consent, ask what the sample can and cannot show, how results will be communicated, and what follow-up choices may be discussed.

Read more about [Chorionic Villus Sampling](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/chorionic-villus-sampling/).

After CVS, contact your maternity team promptly about persistent or increasing abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, fever, chills, or feeling unwell. Seek urgent assessment for heavy bleeding, severe pain, faintness, or a large gush of fluid. Follow the discharge instructions from the service that performed the procedure.

Ask about the specialist’s experience with CVS, the route planned, pain relief, possible findings, result timing, and what support is available while you wait. Confirm the emergency contact number and the planned follow-up visit.