If you’re worried about the CVS test read this!

[Rachellee0]

I wanted to write a post about my experience of the CVS as I found reading other people’s experiences of it on forums really helped me before I had mine. I had mine this morning following an increased NT, 1 in 5 blood result and a high chance NIPT result. Unfortunately we’re likely to get the same result from the CVS but we wanted to be sure. I was really concerned about the test and honestly, it really isn’t as bad as what you’d expect! The thought of it is absolutely worse than the real thing! It is really really quick, like mine was a 2 minute job. Tiny sting when they use the anaesthetic and some pressure when the needle goes in but it’s more of a pressure thing rather than pain. Once the needle is in, prepare yourself that they may have to wiggle the needle around to get a good sample but again that is more of a pressure thing as opposed to pain. I was really worried about it and panicked for days before having it done and if you’re sat at home doing the same then please don’t!

Bless you hun. What was the result in the end ? X

Unfortunately the result was as expected and came back the baby had Down Syndrome. There was also concerns regarding heart and structural defects so me and my partner decided that it would be best for the baby to go ahead with a termination. It has been 6 weeks since and I am still as devastated as I was then. I feel as though I’m in a dark hole right now and can’t seem to find my way out. It’s so difficult in this instance as there aren’t many support groups around.. they have ones for terminations in general and miscarriages but I feel as through I can’t find people who have gone through the same and can shed a light on anything.

I'm sorry for your loss, OP. The charity antenatal results and choices have a web forum for people in your position, and a phone line too. You'd find some support there, if you want it.

I'll have a look now. Thank you! X

Thank you for sharing this. I'm sorry for your loss and hope you find some relevant support. Best wishes.

Hey, just wanted to say I’m sorry for what you’ve been through and you are not alone. I was given 1:6 Edwards after our 12 week scan and CVS confirmed Edwards. All the waiting around for results was torture. We terminated at the end of July and I felt so empty, such deep sadness and in some ways still disbelief.... we were offered counselling but I didn’t know if I needed it. I went for the first session and cried the whole time so I guess it might help xx

Thanks guys for responding. I'm sorry to hear @Otto8 that you're going through a similar experience. They've referred me for genetic counselling but have told me I'll be waiting at least 4 months for an appointment. Doesn't help I've had bad bleeding since and they've found I've still got tissue remaining.. had to have the medical termination tablets again last week which still didn't pass anything so will likely be going in for a d&c next Monday. Can't help but feel like I can't catch a break.

Hi @Rachellee0 I am so sorry that you are still going through this and i know the continual bleeding will make it hard for you to start to mend.

I will also be going through this soon and start the process very soon ay 13,5 weeks.

I really am not looking forward to it (obviously) and the psychological trauma that accompanies it.

I terminated a 16 week pregnancy in June after CVS confirmed downs syndrome and scans showed a likely heart defect. It was a very hard decision and a horrible physical experience.

I don't feel guilty, nor does my husband, but I do feel loss and it just hits me like a ton of bricks sometimes. I'm so sorry for anyone else who is going through this (or has done). Our hospital has offered open-ended bereavement counselling and I expect at some point to take it up - one day the grief will be too much.