Diagnostic Fetal Procedures
Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalised care, using the latest technology to give you clear and reliable answers. Two of the most common procedures we offer are amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS). These tests are usually performed to check for, or exclude, chromosomal or genetic conditions in your baby, and are always discussed carefully with you so you can feel informed and supported at every step.
Understanding Diagnostic and Fetal Procedures
Diagnostic fetal procedures can play an important role in checking for possible health issues or genetic conditions in a developing baby. The information they provide can help you and your family make informed choices about your pregnancy, understand any potential challenges early, and plan the support and care that feels right for you.
Amniocentesis is a diagnostic test usually performed after 15 weeks of pregnancy. A small sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding your baby is gently taken and analysed for chromosomal conditions, certain genetic disorders and some infections. This can provide clear information about your baby’s health and help guide any next steps in your care.
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: Amniocentesis can diagnose chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome. It provides clear, definitive results, which can be especially important if you are facing difficult decisions about your pregnancy.
- Genetic Disorders: It can also look for specific inherited conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anaemia and Tay–Sachs disease, particularly when there is a known family history or increased risk.
- Fetal Infections: TAmniocentesis can help detect certain infections, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) or toxoplasmosis, which may affect a baby’s development, allowing care to be planned as early as possible.
During amniocentesis, a thin needle is gently passed through the abdomen into the uterus, using continuous ultrasound guidance to help keep you and your baby safe. A small amount of amniotic fluid is then drawn up for testing.
The procedure is usually quite quick and most women find it manageable, though you may feel some brief stinging, pressure or mild cramping. The fluid sample is sent to a specialised laboratory for analysis, and results are generally available within one to two weeks. Your doctor will go through these results with you and answer any questions you may have.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is another diagnostic test we offer at Intuition Women’s Imaging, usually performed between 11 and 15 weeks of pregnancy. During CVS, a small sample of placental cells is collected and carefully analysed to look for chromosomal conditions and specific genetic disorders.
This earlier testing option can provide important information about your baby’s health in the first trimester, helping you feel more informed and supported as you make decisions about your pregnancy.
- Early Detection of Chromosomal Abnormalities: Like amniocentesis, CVS can diagnose chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome. Because it is performed earlier in pregnancy, it can provide earlier answers and give you more time to consider your options and plan the next steps that feel right for you.
- Genetic Testing: CVS can also test for specific inherited conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and Tay–Sachs disease, particularly when there is a known risk or family history. This information can help you and your care team prepare and make informed decisions about your pregnancy and your baby’s care.
There are two methods for performing CVS: transabdominal and transcervical.
- Transabdominal: A thin needle is passed through the abdomen, in a similar way to amniocentesis, to take a small sample of placental tissue.
- Transcervical: A fine catheter is gently passed through the cervix to collect the sample.
The best care for you and your baby
We are the leaders on the Central Coast in supporting local mothers during their journey to motherhood and beyond.
Our team of experienced professionals is here to give you clear information and kind, practical support, so you can make decisions that feel right for you and your family. We take the time to explain the benefits, risks and alternatives for each procedure, answer your questions, and check in with how you’re feeling, so you can move forward feeling informed and supported at every step.
Our clinic is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by highly skilled healthcare providers who prioritise your comfort, safety and emotional wellbeing. We are committed to providing compassionate, personalised care- whether you’re having a diagnostic test, managing a complex pregnancy, or seeking advice about your reproductive and gynaecological health- so you can navigate this journey with as much confidence and reassurance as possible.
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If you wish to make a booking with one of our specialists or allied health team, please get in touch with our friendly support staff.
We understand the need for women-led care and have an easy referral system to other health care professionals who provide a range of services specialised to your individual needs.
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Get to know our passionate team
Dr Rajit Narayan
Ultrasound Specialist
Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
