Fetus or newborn affected by chorionic villous sampling

**Definition:** Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a procedure where a small sample of the placenta is removed, either through the cervix or abdomen. Risks when performing CVS include: injury to the fetus or mother from the needle, infection to the mother from a punctured bowel or contaminated skin, or Rhesus sensitisation. Injury or infection can lead to miscarriage, although this is rare.