At what gestational age is chorionic villus sampling typically performed?

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is typically performed between 11 to 14 weeks of gestation. This timing is crucial because it allows for the early detection of genetic disorders while minimizing risks to the pregnancy. During this period, the placenta contains fetal cells that can be analyzed for chromosomal abnormalities and other genetic conditions.

This choice aligns with best practices in prenatal care, as earlier testing can lead to earlier decisions regarding the pregnancy depending on the results obtained, allowing for timely management of any detected issues. Performing CVS too early, before 11 weeks, can lead to complications and less reliable results. Conversely, performing it too late, beyond 14 weeks, would be outside the optimal window for this procedure, as the risks and complications may increase, and test options may then shift to alternatives such as amniocentesis later in pregnancy.