Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) in Abu Dhabi

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) in Abu Dhabi obtains placental villi under ultrasound guidance, usually between 11 and 14 weeks at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital. The selected laboratory test determines which chromosomal or genetic question can be answered; placental mosaicism and other limitations are discussed during counselling.

Who This Page is For

Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.

Pregnant Patient

Mothers at 11–14 weeks who need early diagnostic testing for a specific chromosomal or genetic question.

Referring Doctor

Obstetricians referring patients with increased nuchal translucency (NT), high risk first-trimester screening, or known genetic mutations.

Abnormal Screening

Patients with increased NT (>3.5mm), positive early biochemical screening, or high-risk NIPT.

Second Opinion

Parents wanting to discuss early diagnostic options, genetic risks, and procedure safety with MFM specialists.

When to see MFM

Increased Nuchal Translucency (NT) measurement at the 11–13 week scan.
High-risk first-trimester combined screening or NIPT result.
Known history of genetic disorders or inherited metabolic disease in the family.
Either parent is a carrier of a balanced translocation or specific genetic mutation.

What we do

First-trimester structural ultrasound to verify gestational age and locate the placenta.
Sterile ultrasound-guided sampling of chorionic villi (placental tissue) transabdominally.
QF-PCR for selected common aneuploidies when indicated.
Microarray, targeted gene testing, or other molecular analysis when clinically indicated.

What happens during the visit

1

Detailed genetic and clinical consultation.

2

A targeted ultrasound scan to map the placental pathway.

3

Sterile preparation and transabdominal sampling under continuous ultrasound guidance.

4

Post-procedure observation and individualized aftercare advice.

When urgent referral is needed

  • Vaginal bleeding or leakage of fluid.
  • Severe cramping or pelvic pain.
  • Chills, fever, or feeling unwell post-procedure.

Where the service is available

Available at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, Abu Dhabi. We receive patients from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Ain, and other emirates.

Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM

Offers earlier diagnostic sampling in the first trimester for appropriately selected cases.
Performed exclusively by fellowship-trained MFM specialists with high procedural volume.
Individual counselling about procedure-related risks, benefits, alternatives, placental mosaicism, and test limitations.
Integrated with clinical genetics and pediatric surgical pathways.

Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital

Appointments & Inquiries

800 2000

Clinical Working Hours

Clinic times vary by location and consultant. Please confirm when booking via 800 2000.

Specialists Available

Explore each doctor’s qualifications, clinical interests and verified practice location.

Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim

Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim

Head of Unit · Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine

Toronto fellowship training and more than 25 years of experience, bringing together fetal diagnosis, maternal medicine and coordinated care.

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Dr. Leanne Bricker

Dr. Leanne Bricker

Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine

Extensive experience in fetal therapy and complex multiple pregnancy, alongside international contributions to research and clinical guidance.

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Dr. Werner Diehl

Dr. Werner Diehl

Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine

Our team’s most experienced fetal therapist, bringing broad expertise across fetal therapies, advanced fetal surgery and complex twin pregnancy.

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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said

Dr. Soha Tohamy Said

Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine & Obstetrics and Gynecology

More than 28 years of clinical and leadership experience, with particular interests in maternal health and prevention of preterm birth.

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Dr. Gareth James Waring

Dr. Gareth James Waring

Consultant Maternal–Fetal Medicine

Extensive fetal therapy and surgery experience, alongside expertise in fetal heart conditions and prevention of preterm birth.

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Dr. Bernard Nasr

Dr. Bernard Nasr

Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology · Fetal Medicine

Training in France and Spain, with clinical interests in fetal therapy, growth problems and complex twin pregnancy.

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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega

Dr. Marija Hadji Lega

Specialist Maternal–Fetal Medicine · Associate Professor

More than 25 years of clinical experience, combining advanced fetal imaging with academic teaching and clinical leadership.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.

CVS can be performed earlier in pregnancy (11–14 weeks) compared to amniocentesis (from 15 weeks), allowing for earlier diagnostic clarity.

The additional procedure-related risk is low but not zero, and estimates vary with the population, operator, technique, and study design. Your consultant will discuss the estimate most relevant to your case.

Most patients describe it as a cramping sensation or pressure, similar to a strong period cramp. It is completed quickly.

Turnaround depends on the laboratory and analysis selected. The expected time for QF-PCR, microarray, targeted testing, or sequencing is confirmed during counselling.

CVS samples placental villi earlier in pregnancy, while amniocentesis samples amniotic fluid from 15 weeks. The preferred procedure and laboratory test depend on the clinical question, gestational age, placental position, and relevant limitations.

You will receive individualized aftercare instructions and advice about symptoms that require urgent medical review.

Getting Here & Access

Our Abu Dhabi hub is at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital on Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street (Airport Road), a central location with dedicated on-site parking and step-free access. It is an easy drive from Khalifa City, Al Reem Island, Al Reef, Yas Island, Saadiyat and Mussafah, and roughly 60–75 minutes from Dubai via the E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road). Families travelling from Al Ain or the Western Region are seen by prior appointment so scans and consultations are completed in a single visit.

Insurance & Coverage

We work with major UAE insurers including Daman — including Thiqa and Daman Enhanced — as well as ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation requirements vary by plan, so our team confirms your eligibility and arranges any approvals before your appointment. Self-pay packages are also available.

Areas We Serve

Khalifa CityAl Reem IslandAl ReefYas IslandSaadiyat IslandMussafahAl RahaMohammed Bin Zayed CityAl BateenAl Shamkha

Book a Clinical Consultation

Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.

Medical Content Reviewed by: Dr. Leanne Bricker (MFM Consultant)
Last updated: August 2026