The NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test) is the latest and highly sensitive test that monitors Down syndrome and some other anomalies in a baby. It is performed in the first trimester of pregnancy.
What is NIPT?
At the time of pregnancy, some of the baby’s DNA passes into a mother’s bloodstream. The NIPT Blood test examines all the genetic information in the DNA to monitor the abnormalities. This test consists of a simple blood test that can be performed after ten weeks of pregnancy and is specifically sensitive to Down syndrome.
Why is a NIPT blood test performed?
The NIPT is a highly effective and safe method to monitor conditions that involve:
- Turner Syndrome
- Patau Syndrome
- Edwards Syndrome
- Down Syndrome
Some clinics also check the baby’s gender and determine the issues with the sex chromosomes. The NIPT test can not screen genetic disorders like thalassaemia, cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anaemia.
Is a NIPT blood test right for you?
The NIPT blood test is considered a more appropriate test than the first pregnancy screening test. This test is used to determine the illness in the baby’s neurological system in women who have already undergone screening tests to eliminate the chance of having Down’s syndrome. At Bump2Baby scan, we offer you a NIPT test and take all the required precautions to keep you and your baby safe.
Why is it important to get a NIPT blood test?
The NIPT blood test is very sensitive and picks mostly the cases of Down Syndrome. But it is just a screening test instead of a diagnostic test. It means it can just inform you whether there is an increased risk of having a baby with abnormalities instead of providing you with a definitive answer. You may choose to have a NIPT test if:
- You want to be sure about the increased risk before choosing diagnostic tests like CVS or amniocentesis.
- You would be at increased risk.
- If you did not undergo the combined first-trimester screening test.
- Your combined first-trimester screening test shows that you are at high risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
When is it done?
The NIPT blood test can be done anytime during pregnancy, but most women undergo this test between ten weeks to thirteen weeks of gestation. However, suppose you opt for CVS or amniocentesis. In that case, the process is done between fifteen and nineteen weeks of pregnancy based on the reason for getting the test, the trimester you are in, and your doctor’s preference.
What can you expect from NIPT results?
It takes around two weeks to obtain the desired results of your NIPT blood tests. If you get a negative, low risk, or normal result, your baby is unlikely to suffer from any chromosomal disorders. If you get positive, high risk, or abnormal results, your baby will probably get affected.
In addition to this, if you receive an abnormal NIPT blood test result, a diagnostic test like amniocentesis and CVS can validate the result. You may discuss this with your doctor, genetic counsellor or midwife.
Where to get NIPT blood tests?
Before opting for NIPT blood tests, you must consult a genetic counsellor. You can also consider a Bump2Baby scan for conducting the NIPT blood tests or a baby scan. With our NIPT tests, you can find out the gender of your baby after only nine weeks’ gestation. Moreover, you can expect the results within 7-10 working days of receiving the sample in our lab.
