CVS: to do it or not to do it? That's the question...

[Anonymous]

I had one and am so glad I did. Go to a doctor who is very experienced in performing the procedure, and speak to a genetic counselor ahead of time. I was initially concerned that the risk for m/c was higher for a CVS than an amnio, but we learned that is really no longer the case now that doctors are more experienced in performing the CVS.

[Anonymous]

OP here. Thanks for all the responses, they made me think deeper about this and I'm feeling closer to decide to go ahead and do it. I will terminate if there is something very wrong with the baby and the idea of terminating at 20-22 weeks (after the amnio) is inconceivable. I just made an appointment with Dr. Karson next week to discuss this matter and based on her recommendations and the information she will give us, make a decision. But I'm now 98% sure that I want to do it. Thanks again for the honest responses, you are a great bunch!

[Anonymous]

Little bit of a hijack, but does anyone know Dr. Karson's miscarriage rates for either CVS or amnio? I read on one thread that Dr. Pinkert does something like 600 CVS/year. I have heard that rates are typically lower with Drs who perform the proceedures more often...

[Anonymous]

Another endorsement for Dr. Stern at the Genetics and IVF Institute in Fairfax. Check out their website at least; they have a huge amount of experience and so a very very low miscarriage rate.

[Anonymous]

i don't know dr. karsen's rates but she's been doing cvs' for more than 2 decades and she specializes in multiples -- if you're having twins go to her. Pinckert's rates are comparable to hers -- they're both phenomenal (and i've had one done by each). as others have pointed out -- the rate of miscarriage is the same as amnio WHEN done by an experienced practitioner. CVS' are done in the first trimester, when the chance of miscarriage is greatest ANYWAY, so it's very hard to determine whether the miscarriage was going to happen anyway or whether it was a direct result of the procedure. if yuo're that worried, don't do it..

[Anonymous]

Had two CVS's by Dr. Stern. I highly endorse both him and Genetics and IVF Institute in Fairfax. You are remiss not to explore this better option.

[Anonymous]

I read the opposite about approach that going in vaginal is safer and hurts less than going in through the abdomen. You really want someone good if the placental position requires going in through abdomen. The difficulty and approach depends on the placental placement.

[Anonymous]

The place of entry is dictated by the placement of the uterus at that time (as shown on ultrasound), according to what I had read before my procedure. Although my understanding is that most times it's an abdominal entry - and after doing it, I can see why. It seems to allow the doctor (Dr. Stern in my case) much more control because he can see what he is doing (as guided by ultrasound) and is going straight down.

[Anonymous]

i believe abdominal versus vaginal is predicated on the placement of the placenta, not the uterus. abdominal is the preference; vaginal is trickier. They may also ask you to come back in a few days or so if they feel the placenta is not in a good place -- in other words if the bowel or bladder is in the way etc. as for abdominal -- they can also give you a topical pain blocker -- it's really not that painful at all.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:The place of entry is dictated by the placement of the uterus at that time (as shown on ultrasound), according to what I had read before my procedure. Although my understanding is that most times it's an abdominal entry - and after doing it, I can see why. It seems to allow the doctor (Dr. Stern in my case) much more control because he can see what he is doing (as guided by ultrasound) and is going straight down.

Another vote for Dr. Stern at Genetics & IVF in Fairfax. He is tremendously experienced with CVS procedures, and is incredibly warm and professional. Exactly the type of person I wanted at my side in such a high-stakes, stressful situation. Without a doubt, I will be going back to him for a CVS for the next pregnancy, too. The peace of mind is very important to us.

BTW, mine was abdominal entry. Everything went smoothly, but I will say it was a little uncomfortable for a bit during and after. Nothing awful, but I thought I would mention it in case you do feel some soreness. Dr. Stern said it happens sometimes and is not a worrisome sign.

Good luck, whatever you choose.