What is NIPT?
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing, or NIPT, is a simple blood test that analyzes fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s bloodstream. It screens for common chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). NIPT can also detect sex chromosome abnormalities and certain genetic disorders.
How Does NIPT Work?
During pregnancy, a small amount of fetal DNA crosses the placenta and enters the mother’s bloodstream. NIPT analyzes this cell-free fetal DNA to detect chromosomal abnormalities. The test measures the relative amounts of specific chromosomes and compares them to the normal expected ratios.
What Does the NIPT Test Screen For?
The NIPT test screens for common chromosomal abnormalities, including:
Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18)
Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)
Sex chromosome abnormalities (such as Turner syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome)
Specific genetic disorders (if requested)
It is important to note that NIPT is a screening test and cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. In some cases, further diagnostic testing may be recommended to confirm the results.
Preparing for the NIPT Test
Preparing for the NIPT test is simple and straightforward. There are no special dietary restrictions or preparations required. You can continue with your regular daily activities before and after the test.
Why Choose NIPT at Jogal Women's Hospital?
Accuracy: Our NIPT test has high accuracy rates in detecting common chromosomal abnormalities, reducing the need for invasive procedures like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS).
Early Detection: NIPT can be performed as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy, providing expectant parents with timely information and allowing them to make informed decisions.
Non-Invasive: Unlike invasive tests, NIPT is a non-invasive procedure that poses no risk to the mother or the baby. It involves only a simple blood draw from the mother’s arm.
Comprehensive Results: The NIPT test provides comprehensive results, including the risk assessment for common chromosomal abnormalities and additional information about fetal sex and specific genetic disorders if requested.
Supportive Counseling: At Jogal Women’s Hospital, we understand that receiving prenatal test results can be an emotional experience. Our compassionate and knowledgeable genetic counselors are available to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide support.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are interested in undergoing the NIPT test or have any questions about the procedure, our experienced healthcare team is here to assist you.
Contact Jogal Women’s Hospital today to schedule your NIPT appointment or to learn more about our comprehensive prenatal care services.
Please note that NIPT is an optional screening test, and the decision to undergo the test is entirely up to the expectant parents based on their individual preferences and circumstances.
