Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a safe, highly accurate blood test that screens for certain genetic conditions in a developing baby. Offered as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy, NIPT provides valuable information without risk to you or your baby.

If you’re looking for early insight into your baby’s health, NIPT is a trusted and effective option.

What Is NIPT?

NIPT is a blood test that analyzes small fragments of fetal DNA that circulate in your bloodstream during pregnancy. This test screens for common chromosomal abnormalities, including:

  • Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)

  • Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)

  • Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)

  • Sex chromosome conditions (such as Turner syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome)

  • Fetal sex, if desired

It’s important to note that NIPT is a screening, not a diagnostic test. It cannot confirm or rule out conditions but can indicate whether there’s a higher or lower risk.

Who Should Consider NIPT?

NIPT is available to all pregnant patients but is especially recommended if you:

  • Are age 35 or older at the time of delivery

  • Have a personal or family history of genetic conditions

  • Had an abnormal first-trimester screening result

  • Had a previous pregnancy affected by a chromosomal condition

Your provider will help you decide whether NIPT is the right option based on your individual health and preferences.

Benefits of NIPT

  • Early testing: Performed as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy

  • High accuracy: >99% sensitivity for Down syndrome and other trisomies

  • Low risk: Requires only a blood draw—no risk of miscarriage

  • Optional gender results: If desired, fetal sex can be revealed early

  • Supports informed decisions: Helps guide next steps for follow-up testing or care

What to Expect

NIPT is a simple and straightforward process:

  1. Your provider will review the test and obtain consent

  2. A standard blood draw is performed during a routine visit

  3. The sample is sent to a specialized lab

  4. Results are usually available in 7–10 days

When results are ready, your provider will contact you to review them and discuss any recommended follow-up.

Understanding Your Results

Low-risk result: Indicates a low chance of the screened conditions, but not a guarantee of a healthy baby.

High-risk result: Indicates a higher chance of a chromosomal condition. Diagnostic testing (such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis) may be offered for confirmation. However, these tests are more invasive and carry greater risk.

NIPT is not a replacement for ultrasounds or other standard prenatal screenings. It’s part of a broader picture of your baby’s health.

What If My Results Are Abnormal?

An abnormal or high-risk result means further evaluation is needed. If that happens, your provider will walk you through the next steps, which may include:

  • Genetic counseling

  • Targeted ultrasound

  • Diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis)

  • Support resources and care planning

We’ll provide the guidance and support you need, every step of the way.

Safe, Early Insight with NIPT

Pregnancy is full of questions, and NIPT helps provide early answers. For making decisions about further care, this test offers safe, accurate information when it matters most.

Schedule your prenatal visit today to learn more about NIPT and whether it’s right for your pregnancy.