NIPT, or Non-Invasive Prenatal Test, is a fetal chromosomal analysis performed using the mother’s blood sample

NIPT, which stands for Non-Invasive Prenatal Test, refers to a fetal chromosomal analysis performed using the mother’s blood sample. It allows for the examination of fetal chromosomal abnormalities. At Dextra Fertility Clinic, NIPT testing is available in three different scopes:

NIPT “Limited”

Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
Sex chromosomes X / Y

NIPT “Mid-Range”

Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
Chromosome 9
Chromosome 16
Sex chromosomes X / Y
Microdeletion syndromes: CATCH syndrome (22q11 deletion), Prader-Willi and Angelman syndromes (15q11 deletion), Deletion syndrome 1p36, Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (4p-), Cri-du-chat syndrome (5p-

NIPT ”Comprehensive”

All chromosomes
Sex chromosomes X / Y
Microdeletion syndromes: CATCH syndrome (22q11 deletion), Prader-Willi and Angelman syndromes (15q11 deletion), Deletion syndrome 1p36, Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (4p-), Cri-du-chat syndrome (5p-), Jacobsen syndrome (11q23 deletion), Langer-Giedion syndrome (8q24 deletion), Smith-Magenis syndrome (17p11.2 deletion)-oireyhtymät: CATCH-oireyhtymä (22q11 deleetio), Prader-Willin ja Angelmanin oireyhtymät (15q11 deleetio), Deleetio-oireyhtymä 1p36, Wolf-Hirschhorn oireyhtymä (4p-), Cri-du-chat oireyhtymä (5p-), Jacobsen oireyhtymä (11q23 deleetio), Langer-Giedion oireyhtymä (8q24 deleetio), Smith-Magenis oireyhtymä (17p11.2 deleetio)

For whom can a NIPT be performed?

NIPT testing can be performed in all single or twin pregnancies that have reached 10 weeks of gestation. In the case of twin pregnancies, not all options for NIPT testing may necessarily be available. NIPT testing is also possible in pregnancies where donated eggs or sperm have been use.

How is NIPT testing performed?

During NIPT testing, counseling related to the test is always provided first. In the counseling session, a doctor discusses the test and potential findings.

A referral is made, and consent for the test is signed. NIPT testing is conducted by taking a standard blood sample which is sent to a genetics laboratory for analysis. The blood sample can be taken once the pregnancy has reached 10 weeks or more. NIPT blood samples can be taken from Monday to Wednesday.

When are the results of the NIPT test available?

The results of NIPT testing are typically available within a week and at the latest within two weeks. The results are given by phone as soon as they are ready. Additionally, we send the results by post. If the test result is abnormal, a referral is made to the University Hospital’s Feto-maternal unit.

Does NIPT testing reveal the baby’s gender?

The NIPT test results include information about the baby’s gender. We can also provide information only about the examination of sex chromosomes and whether they have been found to be normal and not reveal the gender of the baby.

Is NIPT testing reliable?

NIPT testing is very reliable. However, a normal test result does not completely rule out the possibility of other health-related abnormalities in the fetus that cannot be detected through NIPT testing. Routine antenatal care and screening complement the results of NIPT testing.