Chorionic villus sampling is typically performed at what gestational age?

Chorionic villus sampling is typically performed at what gestational age?

• A. 8-10 weeks
• B. 12-14 weeks
• C. 16-18 weeks
• D. 20-22 weeks

Answer: (A)

Chorionic villus sampling is a first-trimester diagnostic procedure that obtains fetal genetic material from placental tissue to test for chromosomal and genetic abnormalities. The timing is chosen to balance accessibility of placental villi with safety, providing results early enough for informed decision-making. The typical window is in the early weeks of pregnancy, around 8–10 weeks gestation, when chorionic villi are well developed and accessible by either transcervical or transabdominal approaches. Performing CVS within this period allows rapid genetic analysis and avoids waiting until amniocentesis, which is performed later (usually 15–20 weeks). Sampling before this window is often not feasible due to insufficient placental tissue, and sampling after this window is less favorable because the procedure carries higher risk and the window for early diagnosis has passed.

Chorionic villus sampling is a first-trimester diagnostic procedure that obtains fetal genetic material from placental tissue to test for chromosomal and genetic abnormalities. The timing is chosen to balance accessibility of placental villi with safety, providing results early enough for informed decision-making. The typical window is in the early weeks of pregnancy, around 8–10 weeks gestation, when chorionic villi are well developed and accessible by either transcervical or transabdominal approaches. Performing CVS within this period allows rapid genetic analysis and avoids waiting until amniocentesis, which is performed later (usually 15–20 weeks). Sampling before this window is often not feasible due to insufficient placental tissue, and sampling after this window is less favorable because the procedure carries higher risk and the window for early diagnosis has passed.