Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

What is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)?

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a safe and highly accurate blood test that screens for certain genetic conditions in a developing baby. This test analyzes small fragments of fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s bloodstream, allowing for the early detection of potential chromosomal abnormalities, such as:

Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18)

Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13)

NIPT can be performed as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy and poses no risk to the mother or baby, making it a preferred choice for many expecting parents.

Why Choose NIPT?

Expecting parents often opt for NIPT because it provides crucial information about the baby’s health early in pregnancy. The test is non-invasive, requiring only a blood sample from the mother, and offers results with up to 99% accuracy for common chromosomal conditions. The earlier you know, the better prepared you can be for the rest of your pregnancy.

Who Should Consider NIPT?

While NIPT is available to all pregnant women, it is particularly recommended for those with the following risk factors:

Mothers over the age of 35

A family history of genetic disorders

Abnormal ultrasound findings

Previous pregnancies affected by chromosomal abnormalities

If you meet any of these conditions or simply want peace of mind, NIPT is an excellent option for early prenatal screening.

How Does NIPT Work?

NIPT works by analyzing the cell-free fetal DNA (cfDNA) present in the mother’s blood. During pregnancy, small fragments of the baby’s DNA circulate in the maternal bloodstream. This DNA can be separated and tested for specific chromosomal conditions. Results are typically available within 7-10 days.

What Does NIPT Screen For?

In addition to detecting Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13), NIPT can also screen for:

Sex chromosome abnormalities (e.g., Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome)

Other less common chromosomal disorders depending on the lab’s testing capabilities

Some NIPT tests may even reveal the gender of your baby, if desired.

Is NIPT Safe?

Yes! Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing is completely safe for both mother and baby. Unlike invasive tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which carry a small risk of miscarriage, NIPT involves a simple blood draw from the mother. This non-invasive method ensures there’s no physical risk to your pregnancy.

How Accurate is NIPT?

NIPT is one of the most reliable prenatal screening tests available today. It has a 99% accuracy rate for detecting certain chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome. However, it’s important to note that NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. A positive result may require further testing, such as amniocentesis or CVS, to confirm the diagnosis.

What Are the Next Steps After NIPT?

Once your NIPT results are available, your healthcare provider will review the findings with you. In most cases, the results will indicate that your baby is at low risk for the tested conditions. If a high-risk result is detected, your provider will discuss follow-up testing options to confirm the findings and help you make informed decisions about your pregnancy.

For a detailed discussion of your results and what they mean for you, feel free to contact us to speak with a professional from Pro DNA Lab.

How Much Does NIPT Cost?

The cost of Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing varies depending on the specific tests being performed and your insurance coverage. At Pro DNA Lab, we strive to offer competitive pricing and flexible payment plans to make NIPT affordable for everyone. Check with your insurance provider to see if NIPT is covered under your plan.

For a personalized cost estimate, visit our Pricing page.

Schedule Your NIPT at Pro DNA Lab Today!

If you’re looking for a reliable and safe way to screen for genetic conditions early in your pregnancy, Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) at Pro DNA Lab is the right choice for you. We serve expecting parents across Augusta, GA and Atlanta, GA, providing them with accurate results and peace of mind.