NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test)

NIPT · cell-free DNA test · prenatal DNA screening · Down syndrome blood test

Blood is taken from the mother's vein. It contains the baby's DNA, which is used to estimate the risk of some chromosome conditions.

Usually from 10 weeks of pregnancy, to estimate the risk of Down syndrome and other chromosome conditions, especially if screening showed a high risk.

⏱ Duration: the blood draw takes 3 to 5 minutes; results usually come in 7 to 14 days

Be sure to tell your doctor

Exactly how far along you are
If you are carrying twins or conceived through IVF
If you had a blood transfusion or an organ transplant
If genetic conditions run in your family

How to prepare

Timing. Usually done no earlier than 10 weeks. Your doctor or clinic will tell you when.
Food. Usually no fasting is needed. Check with the clinic.
Clothing. Wear a sleeve that is easy to roll up above the elbow.

What to bring

Your referral
Your ID
Ultrasound results showing how far along you are

How it goes

You fill out a form: weeks of pregnancy, height, weight, and pregnancy details
You sit down and rest your arm on the armrest
A band is tightened above your elbow, and the skin is wiped
Blood is drawn into a special tube
The needle comes out, and a cotton pad is pressed on

What you'll feel

A quick prick, like a pinch
The test is safe for the baby. Blood is taken only from the mother

Afterwards

Press the cotton pad for 3 to 5 minutes
Results usually come in 7 to 14 days
If the risk is high, your doctor will offer more tests. NIPT is not a final diagnosis

Common questions

Can NIPT harm the baby?

No. Only the mother's blood is taken from a vein, like a regular test.

If NIPT is fine, can I skip the ultrasound screening?

No. The ultrasound shows something else: how the organs are developing. Your doctor usually orders both.

Can I find out the baby's sex?

Many tests show it. Ask the clinic if you want to know.