Invasive Testing

Invasive prenatal testing refers to diagnostic procedures that involve inserting instruments or needles into the uterus to collect samples for testing.

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and Amniocentesis (Amnio) are diagnostic tests available to detect chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) in the unborn baby. These tests are commonly offered to patients who are considered to be at increased risk of chromosomal problems – if the first trimester nuchal translucency screen showed an increased risk, a previous baby had a chromosomal abnormality, the mother is over 35 years of age or they are simply concerned about chromosomal abnormalities.

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) (11-14 weeks)

CVS can be performed between 11-14 weeks. CVS involves inserting a fine needle through the maternal abdominal wall under ultrasound guidance into the uterus in order to obtain a small sample of the placenta (called chorionic villi). A small amount of local anaesthetic is used to numb the skin which does not affect the baby. The risk of miscarriage from a CVS is estimated at 1 in 100, and is slightly higher than for amniocentesis, but the advantage is that the results are available earlier. In around 2 – 3% of cases, the placenta may have mixed normal/abnormal cells (mosaicism) or other rarer abnormalities and an amniocentesis may be indicated to clarify the fetus’ condition.

Amniocentesis (16+ weeks)

Amniocentesis can be performed from 16 weeks onwards. The procedure involves inserting a fine needle through the maternal abdominal wall under ultrasound guidance into the uterus to the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby. A small sample of fluid is withdrawn (about 20mls) which is naturally replenished within 24 hours. The procedure carries a risk of miscarriage, estimated at around 1 in 200 to 300.

Preparation

It is recommended to empty your bladder 1 hour prior to the procedure, then drink 2 glasses of water and then do not empty your bladder.

Please bring with you :

A referral from your Doctor
Previous scans (if performed elsewhere)
Partner/friend/mum or dad for support and to drive you home after the procedure

What to expect

Allow 1-1.5 hours for your appointment. The procedure itself will only take approximately 10-15 mins. An ultrasound is done first to check the position of the baby and placenta. The Doctor will insert the fine needle under ultrasound guidance through the maternal abdominal wall. The sample will be taken with the assistance of the Sonographer. The sample will be checked and then the needle will be removed.

After the procedure

You will be taken to private room to sit and relax for 10-15 mins after the procedure and offered a tea or coffee. After the test a small amount of cramping can occur, which may be relieved with paracetamol. It is advisable to take it easy over the next 24-48 hours with no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. Bed rest is not necessary and normal daily activities can be resumed after 48 hours. If you have any loss of blood or fluid from the vagina, or increasing discomfort you must contact your referring Doctor or Obstetrician or you should present to the nearest Emergency Department.

Results

Two sets of results will be available; the short term result is usually available within 2-3 days which examines the 5 most common abnormal chromosomes including Down Syndrome. The long term result takes around 14 days and looks at all chromosomes in greater detail. One of our Doctors at QUFW or your referring Doctor will discuss the short term results with you over the phone within 2-3 days of you having the test. You will be asked if you would like to know the sex of your baby as this may also be determined from the chromosomes. The long term results will be discussed with you by your Doctor, over the phone with one of our Doctors or at your next appointment with us.

Will it hurt?

Most women experience only a mild amount of discomfort during the procedure, similar to a blood test. Occasionally crampy period pain or mild pain radiating down the thighs or legs may be experienced and this is considered normal.

Can these tests harm my baby?

CVS and amniocentesis are carried out at QUFW by doctors who have many years experience in performing these tests. The only risk in performing these tests is the associated miscarriage risk of the procedure itself.

What is not detected by this test?

It is important to be aware that CVS and Amniocentesis cannot detect a physical abnormality such as spina bifida or a heart defect. Not all genetic problems can be detected by this test. Please discuss with us if there is a family history of a genetic problem.

What are the costs involved?

There is a medicare rebate for these procedures, however there will be an out of pocket gap. The laboratory that analyses the sample will charge a separate fee, which you will receive in the mail.

Appointment Enquiry

about QUFW

QUFW provides a comprehensive range of obstetrics services for singleton and multiple pregnancies, including screening, tertiary opinion and invasive testing. In addition, our gynaecology ultrasound examinations are equally expansive from routine to gynaecology procedures.

Beyond your scan, we believe in comprehensive care. Our team takes the time to discuss findings with you, answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and providing you with support and guidance. We value the trust placed in us and are committed to delivering ultrasound and other women’s health services to our community and beyond. We are QUFW. We are here for you.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What are your opening hours?

Our Brisbane practice is open Monday – Friday 8am to 5pm, Saturday 8am-12:30pm.
Our Ipswich, Southport and Tugun practices are open between Monday – Friday 8am to 5pm.

Where can I park my car?

Spring Hill: Metered street parking on Little Edward and Boundary Streets (Please be aware of the clearway zone at certain times of the day).

Parking underneath the Leichhardt Court building (orange section) with entry via Hope Street. Online bookings are recommended through Wilson parking.

Southport: 4 hour metered parking is available on Short Street. Additional car parking available in the Gold Coast City Council Carey Carpark and Australia Fair Shopping Centre

Ipswich: Onsite Parking is available at the back of the Medical Centre. Metered on street Ipswich City council parking is also available.

Tugun: Onsite car parking is available in the John Flynn Hospital campus.

How much will my scan cost?

The cost of the ultrasound and consultation will be discussed at the time of making an appointment. We request that accounts be settled on the day after the consultation. We have EFTPOS and accept MasterCard, VISA and American Express. We are a private medical ultrasound service and we do not routinely bulk bill as this would not allow us to provide the best comprehensive service for our patients.

How long will the appointment take?

Our scans can range from approximately 30-60 minutes depending on the type of scan, but please allow up to 90 minutes. Occasionally there are unexpected delays. If a problem is detected in a routine ultrasound, it will be discussed with you at the time of your appointment. In this situation, further examination and reassessment may extend over a longer period depending on the complexity of this problem and individual patient needs. This process may lead to delay of the assessment of other women’s appointments.

We apologise for these delays which are unpredictable and we make every effort to avoid significant patient inconvenience. We ask that you demonstrate kindness to our staff if there is an unforeseen delay. We recommend that you ring our rooms in advance to check that we are not significantly delayed so you can plan your day and parking arrangements.

Can I bring another person to my appointment?

At QUFW, we allow two support people to attend your appointment. One of these support people may be a child. Sometimes pregnancy ultrasounds can be a long time for your little one’s attention span, so we request that the other support person is a supervising adult who may be able to attend to your child during the scan if necessary. If you are a surrogate patient, we are happy to discuss this with you when you make your appointment.

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