Safe and highly accurate screening for chromosomal abnormalities through a simple maternal blood test.
What Is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)?
- Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is an advanced prenatal screening test performed through a simple blood sample taken from the mother.
- The test analyzes cell-free fetal DNA (cfDNA) circulating in maternal blood and screens for the most common chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus.
What Does NIPT Screen For?
How Accurate Is NIPT?
NIPT offers very high screening accuracy:
- Approximately 99–99.5% for Trisomy 21
- Approximately 98–99.6% for Trisomy 18
- Approximately 80–100% for Trisomy 13
Important Information
- NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test.
- It does not replace invasive diagnostic procedures when confirmation is required.
- It offers significantly higher detection rates than first-trimester screening alone.
An abnormal NIPT result should always be confirmed with invasive prenatal diagnostic testing before any clinical decisions are made.
Invasive Prenatal Diagnostic Testing
Diagnostic procedures include:
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
- Performed between 11 and 15 weeks of pregnancy
Amniocentesis
- Usually performed after 16 weeks of pregnancy
These procedures are recommended when:
- NIPT results are abnormal
- Ultrasound findings are suspicious
- There is an increased individual genetic risk
They provide definitive diagnostic information and are associated with a very low miscarriage risk (approximately 0.01–0.07%).
When Is Further Evaluation Recommended?
- Abnormal NIPT results
- Suspicious ultrasound findings
- Increased individual or family genetic risk
Additional Genetic Screening Options
Depending on individual circumstances, additional testing may include:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
- Hereditary Hearing Loss Screening
The selection of prenatal tests is individualized according to the medical history and specific needs of each pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can NIPT be performed?
NIPT can be performed from the 10th week of pregnancy onwards.
Does NIPT replace the Nuchal Translucency Scan?
No. NIPT and the first-trimester ultrasound assessment are complementary examinations and should be interpreted together as part of comprehensive prenatal care.
Informed Decisions Start with Reliable Information
Understanding your prenatal testing options is an important step toward a safe and well-monitored pregnancy.
