Safeguarding Your Baby's Health
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a safe and advanced blood screening test that analyses cell-free fetal DNA in the mother’s blood to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities. It can be performed from the 10th week of pregnancy and helps screen for conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13) — without the risks associated with invasive procedures.
What is NIPT Testing?
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), also known as NIPS, is a prenatal screening test that analyses cell-free DNA (cfDNA) circulating in a pregnant woman’s blood.
These DNA fragments originate from the placenta and provide information about the baby’s chromosomes. By analysing cfDNA, NIPT helps assess whether the fetus has a high risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities. Unlike most DNA found inside a cell’s nucleus, cfDNA floats freely in the bloodstream, making it possible to screen the pregnancy using only a maternal blood sample.
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Safe & Non-Invasive: Requires only a simple blood draw from the mother.
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High Accuracy: More accurate than conventional first-trimester screening tests.
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Zero Risk to Baby: Unlike invasive tests such as amniocentesis, NIPT carries no risk of miscarriage.
What Does NIPT Detect?
NIPT primarily screens for chromosomal disorders caused by extra or missing copies of chromosomes.
Down Syndrome
(Trisomy 21)
Caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13. A severe genetic condition commonly linked with heart, brain, and other organ abnormalities.
Edwards Syndrome
(Trisomy 18)
Caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18. Often associated with serious developmental delays and multiple health complications.
Patau Syndrome
(Trisomy 13)
Caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13. A severe genetic condition commonly linked with heart, brain, and other organ abnormalities.
Other Conditions
NIPT may also screen for sex chromosome abnormalities such as Klinefelter syndrome (XXY) and Turner syndrome (X), as well as certain microdeletion syndromes like DiGeorge syndrome (22q11.2 deletion). Accuracy for these conditions may vary compared to common trisomies.
Who Should Consider NIPT?
While NIPT is safe for all pregnancies, doctors may strongly recommend it in the following situations:
Advanced Maternal Age
Women who will be 35 years or older at the time of delivery, as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with maternal age.
Abnormal Ultrasound Findings
If an earlier ultrasound has shown concerns related to fetal growth or development.
Family History
Personal or family history of pregnancies affected by chromosomal abnormalities.
Previous Screening Results
When standard first-trimester screening tests have indicated a higher risk for chromosomal conditions.
Common Questions
Take the Next Step
Understanding your baby’s health is a personal decision. Our genetic counsellors and specialists are here to help you understand your options and guide you at every step.